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Bugs and Sea Creatures To Avoid
By Cordeline Kennedy | April 28, 2009
Queensland and all of The Land Down Under is not without danger. With it’s rich fauna it is home to many native dangers which you should be aware of. This is not meant to bring you fear, more to educate you as to what might be lingering out there. It is highly unlikely that you will ever run into one of these creatures, but you should be informed in the rare case that you do.
Spiders: The red-backed spider is Australias most deadly spider. It is found all over the continent but mainly northern warm places and has neurotic venom that induces severe pain and some fatalities have been known. They are commonly found under logs, rocks, bricks and in outside toilets and sheds. They are only about 1cm in length, easily identifiable by their red back The Funnel Web Spider is a darkly coloured spider resembling tarantula and have fangs with ample venom glands that can even penetrate fingernails or shoes. They are found on the Eastern coast of Australia. First aid, as with other bites, is to get anti-venom immediately.
The Box Jellyfish is known to be one of the most lethal animals in all of the world. It is found only in Australia, along the Great Barrier Reef. this creature possesses one of the most dangerous stings and powerful venoms. It’s stings are extremely painful and often fatal. Vinegar is a must in every first aid kit when traveling near where these jellyfish are located. When applied immediately the damage can be lessened. Medical attention is still neccessary as soon as possible.
The Blue Ring Octopus is known to be one of the most toxic creatures anywhere in the world. It is found off the Northern coast of Australia. Despite it’s small size, the size of a golf ball, it has fatal venom which causes paralysis, eventually resulting in cardiac arrest. There is no known antidote for it’s fatal venom. Stone fish are another sea creature to be aware of. They live in the bottom of a reef and ar camouflaged by their rock-like appearance. They have 13 venomous spines located in their dorsal region and can cause shock, paralysis and even tissue damage or death. First aid should be immediately rendered, along with bandages and hot compresses.
As for Reptiles, tiger snakes are venomous, but not usually aggressive, however it’s venom is known as one of the worlds most deadly. There is anti-venom readily available but must be immediately rendered. The taipan snake has the most toxic venom and can be found in the sugar fields of Queensland. Saltwater Crocodiles, as seen on the Crocodile Hunter, can grow up to 18ft. long and are also found in Queensland. They can take down a full grown water buffalo and often attack people. They camoouflage themselves easily and strike with amazing force and speed.
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