The Great Barrier Reef's Most Dangerous Creatures

We all know that the Great Barrier Reef is known for many things. Its the largest living organism in the planet, it has 900 islands, it is composed of 2,900 individual reefs, it has some of the best diving spots in the world.

The Great Barrier Reef is home to many sea creatures as well which is why before you venture into the water to wade, swim, snorkel, or dive know that beautiful aquatic animals coexist with the most dangerous animals in the reef. Knowing or becoming familiar with these animals will help you understand why there is a need to follow danger signs and the "no touch" policy.

Stingers

The Box Jellyfish which is also called Sea Wasp is one of the most deadly animals in the planet which can be found near the shores of the reef. Its toxin which can be found on its long tentacles is so strong that very few survive its sting. When someone is stung, vinegar or peeing on the spot will somehow reduce pain but should not replace medical assistance.

The next deadly stinger is the Irukandji Jellyfish which can be found at the deeper waters of the northern portions of the Great Barrier Reef but due to currents may be swept to shore. It might be small, just a few centimeter but its poison also packs a punch in that being stung can be life threatening.

There are stinging fish as well such as the Stonefish and Lionfish. Their spiny fins are toxic so avoid getting punctured as this is the way the venom is introduced into the body.

The next in our short list is the Blue Ringed Octopus so called because of the blue rings on its body is a small and the only poisonous octopus in the whole planet. You can find it on rock pools and when you try to pick it up, it will bite you with its sharp beak.

Second from the last is the Sting Rays which are really beautiful and graceful creatures but be careful with their tails that where the barbed spine is.

If you thought shells are safe think again. The are many species of Cone Shells in the Great Barrier Reef and they are found on rock pools which is why it's easy to step on them. If they feel threatened they would fire a harpoon-like dart on you that has a venom powerful enough to kill a human.

Biters

Sea snakes may be venomous but they rarely waste their toxin on something they can't eat and most of their bites are purely for self defense. You're relatively safe if you don't annoy them.

Bites by Sharks, Moray Eels, and others may be uncommon but if you are on a shark feeding dive it's best to follow instructions from the dive master.

Safety Precautions

Never ever touch anything no matter how beautiful or inviting. Teach your kids this motto because they are more likely to pick lovely but poisonous shells.

When you need to rest at the bottom of the ocean when diving shuffle the sand first with your fins to give sting rays or other creature which might be hiding in the sand, a chance to go away.

At the Great Barrier Reef there are reef education sessions before you go snorkeling or diving put them to mind lastly, always listen to your dive masters and always follow danger signs.