The Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town held an emotional farewell moment with Cherry, its beloved common octopus. At the end of July, the animal was released back into the ocean after several months during which it charmed visitors and staff, according to Cape Town Etc.
Cherry became one of the aquarium's most recognizable 'ocean ambassadors' during her time there. She established a close bond with aquarist Taigan Roberts. The aquarium team described Cherry's release as a 'happy' farewell, and video footage of the event was posted on the Two Oceans Aquarium's Facebook page.
Since Cherry has reached sexual maturity, her release provides her opportunity to find a mate and contribute to the next generation of common octopuses along the Cape coast. The aquarium emphasized that releasing animals after they reach maturity is an integral part of its commitment to nature conservation and animal welfare.
A new resident named Plum has now joined Cherry at the aquarium. Plum will spend three to six months at the aquarium as the new ocean ambassador before her own release, as confirmed by the aquarium on Facebook. Visitors can meet Plum in the aquarium's Diversity Gallery, where she will help raise awareness about ocean conservation before returning to the wild.
A walk on the beach can bring many surprises: from colorful shells and seaweed to unusual marine animals washed ashore. While some beach finds are completely harmless, others can sting, bite, or release toxins even after they have reached land.
There is a number of sea creatures that should strictly not be touched if spotted on the beach. Among them is the Portuguese man o' war, which is one of the most recognizable and potentially dangerous organisms along the coast of South Africa. Its bright blue or purple, balloon-like floating body conceals long tentacles covered in venomous cells that remain active even after the animal dies. Touching it can cause severe pain, rash, and, in rare cases, severe allergic reactions. If such an organism is found, children and pets must be kept away, and stepping on it should be avoided, even if it looks dried out.
Blue bottles, often mistaken for small jellyfish, are regularly washed ashore in large clusters after strong winds. Like the Portuguese man o' war, they can sting for a long time after landing on the sand; even detached tentacles can cause a painful prick. When walking barefoot, one should carefully watch the shoreline, especially after stormy weather.
Although not all jellyfish are equally dangerous, it is safer to assume that any washed-up jellyfish can sting. Its tentacles often merge with the sand and can extend far beyond the animal itself. Curious children are at increased risk because the gelatinous body looks harmless. One should refrain from poking it with hands or feet.
Viperfish look very attractive, but they are among the most poisonous vertebrates in the world. Although they do not pose a danger simply lying on the beach, they should not be touched. Some species contain tetrodotoxin—an extremely potent poison that retains its danger after death. Pets are particularly vulnerable, so when encountering such fish, pets should be kept at a distance.
Coral snails have beautifully patterned shells that might tempt one to add them to a collection, but this should not be done. Some species have a venomous, harpoon-like tooth used to catch prey. Although not every coral snail is dangerous, it is impossible to determine by appearance whether the animal inside is alive. If the shell is occupied, picking it up could lead to a painful and potentially serious bite.
Sea snakes are rarely found along the coast of South Africa, but they are sometimes washed ashore after storms or unusual ocean currents. Even if they appear dead, they can bite as a reflex. Their venom is very strong, so they should be completely avoided. If found, maintain distance and, if necessary, report it to local authorities or marine conservation organizations.
Small sea urchins may sometimes be in shallow water or washed up on beaches. Their jagged tail spines remain sharp and can cause painful injuries. If you find a live stranded urchin, do not attempt to return it to the ocean yourself unless instructed by marine rescue experts.
A stranded sea urchin may look harmless out of water, but its sharp spines can still puncture the skin. Some species also have venomous spines, and fragments of broken spines can get stuck under the skin, causing infection. If you find such an urchin, leave it where it is.
Sea slugs are large marine mollusks that are sometimes washed up after rough seas. Although they are not as dangerous to touch as jellyfish or blue bottles, many species release purple ink when stressed, and some contain toxins that can be harmful upon contact or ingestion. It is best to leave them alone.
If dead marine mammals, such as seals, dolphins, or whales, are found, do not approach or touch them. Decomposing marine mammals can carry bacteria and diseases, and trapped gases inside the carcass make it unstable. Authorities must always be notified for safe assessment and management of the situation.
Not every animal washed ashore is dead. If you discover a stranded marine animal, you must follow these rules: do not touch it, keep children and pets at a distance, take a photograph from a safe distance to aid identification. If the animal appears alive or is in distress, contact the nearest marine wildlife rescue organization, local municipality, or National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI). Never attempt to return an injured marine animal to the sea without expert advice.
If you receive a sting or injury, immediately move away from the animal. In case of a jellyfish or blue bottle sting, wash the wound with seawater, not fresh water. Seek medical attention if the pain is severe, if there are difficulties breathing, or if signs of swelling, dizziness, or allergic reaction appear. If a pet has come into contact with or eaten a washed-up marine creature, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Visiting the coast allows you to discover amazing marine fauna, but some discoveries are best admired from afar. When in doubt, remember the simple rule: observe, photograph, and admire, but do not touch. This protects both you and the wildlife.
