A diver in Indonesia shared images of a burning rash on their knee after coming into contact with fire coral while diving in tropical waters. The rash appeared red with dark scabs, and the diver described experiencing a burning sensation on their knee. Maria Rosa, an associate professor of biology, confirmed that it looked like fire coral but clarified that it is not coral poisoning. Fire corals contain stinging cells that release venom, causing discomfort and rashes in humans. The rash usually goes away after a few weeks, but severe cases can result in paralysis.
Fire corals are a subgroup of cnidarians, marine animals that have stinging cells. They can grow as sheets or trees and prosper in shallow reefs with optimal sunlight and water flow variance. Fire corals have been successful in adapting to environmental changes, with the ability to spread out and claim more territory during storms. While other corals may die back, fire corals have been around for millions of years and are considered the inheritors of the reef. They are commonly found on reef faces or the edges of reefs and thrive in areas with high currents.
The diver who encountered fire coral mentioned that they were pushed into it by another diver, despite having decades of experience in tropical waters. The diver saw a doctor who prescribed medication to treat the rash and confirmed that the black areas were coagulated blood. Reddit users shared similar experiences of encountering fire coral rashes while diving or snorkeling and provided advice on treating the rash, including using antibiotics and antiseptics. Some users noted that the rash can take months to heal and may still cause itching and bleeding years later.
The unusual burning rash caused by fire coral highlights the discomfort and potential dangers associated with marine organisms with stinging cells. Fire corals are known for their ability to inflict a very uncomfortable burning sensation on humans, leading to rashes and lesions similar to jellyfish stings. Despite their aggressive defense mechanisms, fire corals have thrived for millions of years due to their adaptability and successful strategies for claiming territory on reefs. In contrast to other corals that may struggle in changing environments, fire corals remain resilient and continue to be a dominant presence in reef ecosystems.
The diver’s experience with fire coral serves as a cautionary tale for fellow divers and snorkelers to exercise caution when exploring tropical waters. Accidental contact with fire corals can result in painful and long-lasting rashes, requiring proper medical treatment to alleviate discomfort and prevent infection. Understanding the behavior and biology of fire corals can help individuals avoid potential encounters and minimize the risk of adverse reactions. By sharing stories and raising awareness about the dangers of fire corals, divers can better protect themselves and preserve the delicate balance of marine ecosystems for future generations.
