Perhaps no other organism on the reef strikes more fear in the hearts of snorkellers and divers than sharks. The black-tip reef shark will bite if cornered. The white-tip reef shark will not bite, even if cornered, but would rather swim away. The epaulette shark is small, nocturnal, and non-aggressive, and thus does not pose much of a threat. Stingrays are another type of cartilaginous fish which exists in the shallow waters of the reef.
Stingrays possess venom-producing barbs on their tail tips.
Cases have been reported where barbs have been driven right through the leg or foot of a victim. Most of the animals on the Great Barrier Reef are not dangerous. But as has been shown, a small number of animals which exist on the reef are potentially harmful to humans. Don't wander in the shallow water among and between the reefs without wearing a pair of sandshoes with sturdy soles. Swim in bright sunlight and in water where there is good visibility.