The underwater world is decorated with millions of beautiful, colorful, and unique creatures. But, do not be fooled by the beauty of the tranquil, aquatic scene, some of these species can be pretty dangerous.
You may refuse to believe that venomous and vicious creatures may be prowling beneath the serene water surface. Well, get ready to meet the ocean’s predators!
In this article, you will read about 6 of the deadliest aquatic creatures. While you may have acquainted yourself with the dangerous nature of some of these species already, a few ought to bring some shock. Read on to learn more.
Pufferfish
Harmless-looking pufferfish is actually quite lethal. It contains a substantial amount of venomous tetrodotoxin, which is 1,200 times more dangerous than cyanide. Found in tropical seas around the globe, consumption of this species can kill other fishes.
One pufferfish contains enough toxin to kill 30 adults. Despite the deadening effects of the poisonous fish, it is a delicacy in Japan. Even though it is professionally prepared, ingestion leads to several accidental deaths each year.
Great White Shark
Bloodthirsty great white sharks need no introduction. Even though humans are not their favorite prey, they are responsible for hundreds of unprovoked attacks. They reign the marine food chain and prey on other aquatic creatures. Sharks prefer to prey on sea lions and seals.
However, they often attack humans when their natural food options are scarce. A single bite from a shark’s sharp teeth is sometimes enough to kill.
Box Jellyfish
Box jellyfish are commonly found floating in Indo-Pacific waters. Do not mistake these transparent invertebrates as innocent. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, box jellyfish is the most venomous marine animal.
They lure small fishes with their bewitching tentacles, and then sting them. You should never mistake these small fishes to be a box jellyfish’s only victim. They also sting humans with nematocysts toxin and attack skin cells, the nervous system, and the heart simultaneously.
Blue-Ringed Octopus
Did you know all octopuses are poisonous? But, very few of these blue-blooded tentacular creatures are as venomous as the tiny blue-ringed octopus. These illuminating species release a venom 1,000 times more lethal than cyanide.
Humans won’t even feel a blue-ringed octopus’ bite. However, if it releases venom into the bloodstream, death can result in as little as 20 minutes.
Stingrays
Generally docile creatures, stingrays can cause some serious damage when threatened. Steve Irwin’s death is a good example of a dangerous stingray attack.
He was shooting off the coast of Queensland when a stingray attacked him multiple times with its tail. One of the blows was to his heart, resulting in a fatal outcome within seconds. Stingrays are not generally deadly. However, it is scary when you see what they can be capable of.
Saltwater Crocodiles
If you think Florida’s alligators are scary, their fearsome cousin the saltwater crocodile is worse! These huge reptiles are easily provoked, aggressive, and short-tempered.
Ferocious killers by nature, these reptiles can grow up to 23 feet and weigh over a ton. Despite its name, the crocodiles are very dangerous as they are great swimmers in both fresh and saltwater.
Commonly traced in the Indo-Pacific region, including India, Vietnam, and even northern Australia, they can chew on preys at 3,700 pounds per square inch (psi). For reference, you only chomp on your well-done steak at 200 psi.
The Bottom Line
Water may be synonymous with life, but it houses some fierce residents who boast themselves as the most dangerous aquatic creatures. Now that you have read all about these ferocious creatures, you know what a hostile place the sea can be.