The Maldives or what is formally called the republic of Maldives is a country that is located in southern Asia in the Indian ocean, the country has fascinating wildlife and sea life, so what dangerous animals in Maldives you can find?

It is an archipelago it lies southwest of India and Sri Lanka. There are 26 atolls which stretch from the south to the north.  It is one of the most geographically dispersed locations in the world and the islands have become a major tourist attraction.  If you want to enjoy pristine coastlines and white sandy beaches then the Maldives is the perfect destination for you to visit.  Male is the capital and the most populated city in the country.

This is the smallest Asian territory and it is called the kings’ island as it is where the dynasties ruled from in the region.  The archipelago has a vast submarine mountain in the Indian Ocean and it is one of the most unique locations where creatures I habit and thrive in the region.  The average elevation in the region is about 4 feet above sea level and it is one of the most low-lying locations in the world.

The Maldives is made up of 1192 coral islands which are grouped to form 26 atolls spreading over 871 kilometres.  It is important to note that over 80% of the country is made up of coral islands. There is a high risk of some of the islands submerging if the sea levels rise.  The climate that you are going to experience in the Maldives is tropical monsoon and it is usually affected by the landmass from south Asia to the northern part. The characteristics of climate in the country are largely hot and humid.

During the winter season, the region experiences high amounts of rainfall while during the summer there are storms.  The temperatures in this region are over 30 degrees Celsius hence if you are visiting the region for some sun then you are going to enjoy your time because there is so much to love about the islands. The enchanting islands are enriched by a wide array of wildlife and the marine life is exotic which you will never find anywhere else in the region.  The species in this region are some of the most dangerous and you should watch out for them during your trip to the region. Here are some of the things that you need to be careful with enjoying your time in the Maldives.

Fruit bats

These are some of the endemic creatures that you are going to find in the islands of Maldives. These fruit bats are often common around the resorts in the region and you should watch out for them during your time in the area.

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These bats are mostly out in the evening when they come out to look for food. During the day they escape the harsh sun and tuck their heads inwards in the nests. It is important to note that although it could be lovely to take pictures of these creatures while they are resting then it could be dangerous because they are known to carry a huge number of bacteria and viruses. Recent research has shown that bats have a high amount of virus which causes respiratory diseases.

Giant Triggerfish

Perhaps this is one of the dangerous fishes that you are going to find in this region.

They are usually found in lagoons or waterbodies about 50 meters deep. They usually grow about 75 centimetres long and they can weigh up to 20 pounds their bites can be quite dangerous. Their powerful teeth and precision when attacking their predators is what make them dangerous. They are going to attack you if you interfere with their habitat.

Lionfish

Since the islands of Maldives are mostly surrounded by water the species that you should watch out for are those in the ocean.  The lionfish is one of the most dangerous creatures that you are going to see in the waters of Maldives. This fish might seem colourful and pretty from distance, however, it is imperative to note that they are the most dangerous fish in the region.  The venom from the fish is known to cause paralysis of the respiratory system. They usually store their venom in their fins and these elegant fins are what protect them.

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Whenever they feel threatened you will see them attack by piercing the skin using the fins. Once they do this, they will then release the venom which is dangerous. These lionfish often live in shallow waters hence there is a higher chance that you might encounter them during your trip to the region. Always keep a safe distance from them to prevent any attack.

Bring ringed octopus

Perhaps the most dangerous creature that you are going to find in this region is the blue-ringed octopus.  This might look like an interesting creature at first or for your eyes. It is essential that you stay away from them because they are deadly creatures and a single sting from them will cause instant death.  They are usually recognized by the yellow skin colour as well as the black and blue rings on their bodies. it is important to note that this creature usually changes colour whenever it is threatened.

They are usually small and docile in nature, however, whenever they feel threatened, they are likely to attack you. the venom is from their saliva and it is known to be tetrodotoxin and neurotoxin. This means that when the venom is injected into your body it results in respiratory fairly, central nervous system failure as well as cardiac arrest and death. If you are watching them always keep a safe distance and go with an expert.

Moray eels

These are some of the iconic creatures that you are going to find in the Indian ocean.  These eels are common to the Maldives and they are very dangerous. They might look calm and collected when you are exploring the waters of Maldives. However, whenever they are in the vicinity you must stay safe and away from them.  They usually keep their mouths open to allow them to breathe.

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It is important to understand that you should stay away from them and not interfere with their habitat because they can be very dangerous.  They are usually under the coral reefs and will only come out to look for food. The venom from these creatures is known to cause central nervous system failure and eventually death whenever it is not addressed immediately.

Sea urchins

Urchins

These are some of the most dangerous creatures that you will find deep in the ocean.  They are usually characterized by many spines on their bodies. These razor-sharp spikes are known to deliver a high amount of venom which is very dangerous because it will cause paralysis and breakdown of the central nervous system.  Many people that are affected by these creatures are deep sea divers and snorkelers.

They might be beautiful from a distance; however, these creatures are very dangerous and you should not get closer to them. They may appear immobile and you should not be tempted to touch them because they will spike you and deliver the venom which will cause loss of consciousness and loss of vision.

Blue-spotted Ray

This is one of the most dangerous sting rays that you are going to find in the waters of Maldives.   They are usually blue spotted on their tails. They are known to be a species of stingrays and they mostly like to live deep in the Indian ocean waters.  This creature is very dangerous and you should watch out for them during your trip to the region because whenever they are threatened, it will emit blue spots on the back before it stings the victim.  When you find them in their habitat some of them will appear docile and less dangerous.

However, whenever they feel threatened then they are going to attack you and pass the venom to your system. The venom is known to affect the respiratory system and the cardiac system as well which results in the instant death of the victims.

Stingrays

Stingrays

The stingrays that are found in the Maldives are very common and you are likely to see them deep in the ocean. They are often docile and you will see them swimming if you are going to go deep sea diving or snorkelling.

They have an incredible tail which has fins and they use to pierce the victim. When they use their fins, they usually deliver a highly potent venom that is known to affect the central nervous system and the brain.  These stingrays are some of the most dangerous creatures that you are going to find in the region. It is important that you should stay away from them because they will feel threatened.

Corals

Perhaps these are some of the colourful things that you are going to find in the Maldives. These creatures are some of the most dangerous creatures because they are highly venomous and you should watch out for them. These are some of the sharpest creatures that you are going to find in the region.  If you are stung by the corals, you should apply disinfectant and it is important that you should always be careful in the areas that you are visiting.

Stonefish

The stonefish in the waters of Maldives are some of the most dangerous creatures that you are going to find in this region. The stonefish as the name indicates resembles a stone and they are known to have spikes on their bodies. these spikers are critical in the protection of this fish. You will find them in the seabed or ocean bed and whenever they are threatened whenever someone picks them up.  In most cases, it is very difficult to spot the stonefish because of their capability to hide in the sand in the ocean bed.

The stonefish that you are going to find in the Maldives range from grey to brown in colour and they have some red or yellow in their bodies. They are usually large and can measure up to 20 inches.  The spines are very venomous and it is important that if you are going to explore the waters of Maldives then you should watch out for these creatures because they will cause excruciating pain. The venom causes organ failure and excessive swelling.

Barracuda

The Barracuda is one of the most dangerous creatures that you are going to find in the Maldives. They are known to grow up to 7 feet long and they are often attracted to shiny objects. If you are going to go snorkelling, or deep-sea diving in this region then you should ensure that you do not have any shiny objects because they might come for you.

They often assume that these shiny objects are food and they may confuse swimmers with predators.  These creatures have very sharp teeth and their jaws are incredible it is imperative that you should stay away from the region that they inhabit.  They have very painful bites and they can cause very severe injuries to your body organs. Whenever you are traversing different parts of the islands then you should always stay safe.

Grey reef sharks

These are some of the most popular sharks that you are going to find in the region. They are less aggressive; however, they will attack you if you are going to interfere with their habitat. They have an impeccable sense of smell and will smell a drop of blood miles away. These sharks usually have razor-sharp teeth and they are known to cause severe injuries when they attack you. It is important that you stay far away from the habitats of these sharks. They are mostly active at night and they are known to grow up to 7 feet long and weigh over 300 pounds.

The eastern side of Maldives is where you will mostly find them and you should strive to keep a safe distance from these creatures. If you are not familiar with an area then you must seek help from people who understand the place well. Sharks and very dangerous and you should always watch out.

 

Aurimas Bio

Hi there! I’m Aurimas, a man behind Go Look Explore. I’m passionate about hiking, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and everything outdoors related. Let’s connect.