Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Cayman Islands have taken strict measures
to protect marine life. Today, the sea turtle is pro-
tected and no one may disturb, molest, or take
turtles in Cayman waters without a license.
Other marine conservation laws prohibit the
taking of any marine life or damaging coral with
anchors. Over 200 permanent boat moorings are
in place around the islands.
Poisonous Species
Remember when your mom told you “look but don't touch”? Those words of
wisdom come in handy on the islands. Although most plants and animals
are harmless, you'll find a few creepy crawlies both in and out of the water,
as well as some plants that are best avoided.
SCORPIONFISH:
A mottled pinkish fish that hangs out on
coral and is so ugly it actually looks dangerous.
SEA URCHINS:
Painful if you step on their brittle spines.
JELLYFISH:
These cause painful stings with their tentacles.
STINGRAYS:
Dangerous if stepped on. Can be avoided by
dragging your feet when wading, which kicks up the sand.
FIRE CORAL:
There are many varieties. All those edged in
white will burn you if you brush against them.
MANCHINEEL:
Manchineel trees (
Hippomane mancinella
)
present an unusual danger. These plants, members of the
spurge plant family, have highly acidic leaves and fruit. During
a rain, water dropping off the leaves can cause painful burns on
your skin and the tree's tiny apples will also cause burns when
stepped on. In most resorts, manchineel trees have been re-
moved or are clearly marked, often with signs and with trunks
painted red.
COWITCH
(
Mucuna pruriens
or
Helicteres jamaicensis
):
Think of fiberglass on a vine. Think how much you'd itch if you
brushed into this plant, covered with fine fibers, as you walked
along in shorts. Think of avoiding this one.
COCKSPUR
(
Caesalpinia bonduc
): This shrub won't inflict
any permanent damage, but it will rip at you with its hooked
thorns as you walk past.
MAIDEN PLUM
(
Comocladia dentata
): Be prepared for a
nasty rash if you come in contact with the sap of this weed. It is
dark green with ovate-shaped leaves.
SAND FLEAS:
Tucked into that oh-so-wonderful sand lie tiny
sand fleas, waiting to bite when the sand cools. You won't feel
