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Identification of Dangerous Marine Organisms in the Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea, and Principles of Rescue for Victims of Envenomation and Marine Toxins
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Saman Boostani   , Amir Mohammad Sorouri , Mohammad Reza Heydari , Mohammad Nobakht * |
| Marine Medicine Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran , marinemedicine@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (26 Views) |
Background and Aim: The Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea, with their remarkable biodiversity, host numerous marine species, some of which may pose serious risks to human health. As human interactions with these environments -through activities such as diving, swimming, and fishing- continue to increase, recognizing hazardous species and mastering first-aid principles for managing marine injuries and envenomations have become indispensable. This article was developed to identify dangerous species and to provide rescue protocols for dealing with their associated risks.
Methods: In this review study, hazardous and toxic species of the Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea were identified and categorized based on library research and authoritative scientific databases. Subsequently, first-aid and rescue protocols were developed in accordance with international standards (such as guidelines from the Red Cross and Divers Alert Network [DAN]) for the prevention and initial medical management of stings, electrocution, and poisoning caused by these marine organisms.
Results: The main species identified in these regions include toxic jellyfish (e.g., Cassiopea andromeda), venomous fish (such as scorpionfish and stonefish), various bristle-bearing polychaete worms, stingrays, and sharks. Attacks by these organisms are generally defensive, occurring in response to intrusion into their territory. The findings emphasize the importance of immediate actions such as rinsing the affected site with seawater (not freshwater), removing embedded foreign bodies, applying dry heat to inactivate toxins, and rapidly transferring the victim to medical facilities.
Conclusion: Awareness of the local ecosystem, accurate identification of dangerous organisms, and adherence to safety protocols are the most effective strategies for preventing incidents. Nevertheless, widespread education on first-aid principles specific to marine envenomation and toxicity is vital for reducing complications and increasing survival chances. It is recommended that such training be provided to high-risk groups, including divers, fishermen, and rescue personnel. |
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| Keywords: First aid, Marine toxins, Persian Gulf, Caspian Sea, Dangerous animals, Rescue |
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Type of Study: Review |
Subject:
Marine Medicine
Received: 2025/08/24 | Accepted: 2025/09/9 | Published: 2025/09/1
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