Concepts
Toxin
Venom
Polyp
Stinging cell
Hydroid
Safety
Skills
Observing
Using literature
Box
Jellyfish
4.
Dangerous reef creatures
1 hr •
4
)
FROM PROJECT REEF ED
© Greet Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority
Aim
• To become more aware of some dangerous animals which can be met during
reef walks and snorkelling activities.
You will need
•
Coloured pencils
•
Reference books or slides on dangerous marine animals
What to do
1. For each dangerous creature shown on worksheet
A,
select a name from the
list given and write the names in the spaces underneath the pictures. Use
reference material to help you make your choices, and/or discuss with your
teacher.
2. Using reference books or slides on marine organisms, colour the main areas
of each picture lightly so that its distinctive colour features are shown.
3. Answer each of the questions shown on worksheet B, using information
given.
4. Why do some reef animals produce toxic material and develop the ability to
inject it?
5. How can visitors avoid injury from these creatures?
6. What are the dangerous effects of these creatures? What are the main first-aid
treatments for these?
Readings
Covacevich, J., Davie, P., and Pearn, J., eds. 1987. Toxic
plants and animals:
a
guide
for Australia.
Brisbane: Qld Museum.
Edmonds, C. 1975.
Dangerous marine animals of the Endo-Pacific region.
Melbourne: Wedneil Publications.
Edmonds, C. 1984.
Marine animal injuries to man.
Sydney: Wedneil Publications.
Marsh, L., and Slack-Smith, S. 1986.
Sea stingers.
Perth: %A. A. Museum.
Saenger, P. 1977.
The diver's guide.
Brisbane: AUF.
Butterfly Scorpion Fish
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