Venomous Sector
Come see what dangers await within the Reefs of Australia. Visitors can get
within inches of sea snakes, stonefish, and lionfish! Learn how these
creatures are an important part of the Reef's ecology.
Learn about the stonefish. The Stonefish is a mottled brown-greenish
color and has many venomous spines along its back. It is very dangerous
if stepped on or caught! The venom is released involuntarily when pressure
is applied. Luckily, visitors can get a close view of the poisonous fish
by touring the Dangerous Creatures exhibit without risk to their health!
The stonefish lives primarily in coral reefs and around rocks, or can be
found dormant in the mud or sand. The stonefish feeds on small fish
or shrimp.
Learn about the lionfish. The lionfish is brightly colored and has
venomous spines that can produce painful puncture wounds. But, not to worry,
if you come to visit the Dangerous Creatures exhibit, you can view the
lionfish in safety! The lionfish has elongated dorsal fin spines and
enlarged pectoral fins and a particular pattern of stripes. The lionfish
is generally found in coral reefs, and especially in shallow waters in caves
or near crevices.
Learn about the Sea Snake. Around 22 species of Sea Snake can be found
in Australian waters, a number of which can be viewed from the Dangerous
Creatures exhibit. Sea Snakes are generally venomous and have hollow
front fangs! So, the best place to run into one is behind glass!
There are five major groups of sea snake found in the world. The two major
groups are the Hydrophiidae and the Laticaudidae. Hydrophiidae are the true
sea snakes and the only species found breeding in Australian waters.
The Laticaudidae are the sea kraits. Two of this family is found in
Australia's northern most waters between Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia.
Sea snakes mainly inhabit the shallow waters near shore and are usually
found on land only following violent sea storms, or as a result of illness
or injury.
Enjoy learning about the poisonous creatures of the Australian seas.
But, not to worry: you're safely behind glass!