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“We are detectives!” sang the ’80s band, the Thompson Twins.
While they were referring to Thompson & Thompson, the fictional pair of inept detectives from The Adventures of Tintin, they could have been referring to humans in general.
As curious creatures, one of our primary tools for exploration is touch. We rely heavily on our sense of touch—so much so that we often ignore other senses, like sight. For example, we might run our thumb over a sharp knife blade to “see” if it’s as sharp as it looks. We also let our urge to touch override common sense, sometimes attempting to pet a fluffy dog despite its warning growls simply because it “looks so cute.”
We’re naturally inclined to explore, to investigate. We are, indeed, detectives. And that’s likely why we find it so difficult when someone tells us not to touch something, whether it’s a parent, sibling, or dive guide.
Every good dive briefing should remind divers to avoid touching anything underwater. It’s a basic principle of responsible diving that everyone should be aware of.
The two main reasons we shouldn’t touch anything underwater are:
1. It protects marine life
The skin of most fish (about 28,000 species), turtles, sharks, and rays is covered in a special mucus that serves as both an antiseptic and a protective barrier. This mucus keeps their scales slippery and flexible and protects them from bacterial infections. It’s not just fish—many corals also secrete mucus to protect themselves from bacteria and harmful UV rays, especially those exposed during low tide.
When we touch marine life, we risk wiping off this protective mucus, exposing them to infection, sunburn, or dehydration. Imagine this scenario: You’re eating dinner at home when a giant suddenly rips off your roof, grabs you, and drags you outside. After poking and prodding you, the giant drops you back where you were, leaving you shaken and a little rattled. Would you feel like finishing your meal? Would you want to stay where you are?
This is essentially what happens when we disturb marine life. Even if we intend to put them back “exactly where we found them,” the stress of being moved can harm them. It disrupts their environment and can be detrimental to the animals. Divers should avoid touching marine life for this reason—it’s not just about us; it’s about protecting the ocean’s inhabitants.
2. It protects divers from marine life
While we think of dangerous creatures like sharks or triggerfish, many underwater injuries are caused by smaller, seemingly harmless creatures. For instance, the geography cone is a small shell, no longer than 15 cm, but it has a harpoon-like tooth that can deliver one of the most potent toxins in the ocean. To date, the geography cone has caused 30 human fatalities.
Or consider the blue-ringed octopus. It’s tiny—only about 20 cm—but if provoked, it can deliver venom strong enough to kill a human. Would you know how to spot one?
Even something as simple as resting your hand on some rocks could be dangerous. Hidden among the rocks, venomous scorpionfish can blend in perfectly. Kneeling on the sandy floor? Watch out for the stonefish. These fish bury themselves in the sand and have venomous spines that can cause serious harm if accidentally disturbed.
And that beautiful coral you’re tempted to touch? Some, like fire coral, are not coral at all—they’re hydrozoans, more closely related to jellyfish and anemones. Fire coral can cause painful stings, reminding us once again that it’s best not to touch anything underwater.
Respecting the Marine Environment
When diving, it’s important to remember that we are ambassadors of the ocean. Our impact on the marine world should be a positive one. Through our exploration, we should raise awareness about the underwater world and its significance, not only for us but for future generations.
So, should you touch anything underwater? Out of respect for marine life and your well-being, the answer is clear: No.
By refraining from touching, we protect the environment, the creatures within it, and ourselves. It’s part of being a responsible diver and helping preserve the beauty of the ocean for years to come.
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