fire corals
 

i got a fire coral at the lfs today and the owner said it doesnt sting whats up with that can they sting me?

yes only when polyps are extended

I just got stung 2 days ago, it is just like getting a small burn. Although I handled these corals many times this is a first. A friend gave me a friend and it got me. I find as long as I use my findertips I am fine BUT it got the top of my hand. My wife got it before on her under part of arm.

It can sting you if you forearm rubs against it. be very careful with it when you see the hair like stingers out it can hurt you. I at one time had it and it need lots of flow and good light.
Michael

I am trying to convince my wife to let me buy a Fire Coral...and she sends me this:

[B]Fire Coral Cuts Overview[/B]
Fire corals are not true corals. Fire corals are members of the Cnidaria phylum, and although fire coral looks like coral, it is more closely related to jellyfish and other stinging anemones.

Fire corals have a bright yellow-green and brown skeletal covering and are widely distributed in tropical and subtropical waters. Divers often mistake fire coral for seaweed, and accidental contact is common. The very small nematocysts on fire corals contain tentacles that protrude from numerous surface pores (see Jellyfish Sting). In addition, fire corals have a sharp, calcified external skeleton that can scrape the skin.

[B]Fire Coral Cuts Symptoms[/B]
• Within 5-30 minutes following skin contact with fire coral, an immediate burning sensation or a stinging pain develops.
• A red rash with raised wheals or vesicles appears, and itching develops.
• Lymph gland swelling may occur over time.
• Rarely, nausea and vomiting have been reported.

[B]Fire Coral Cuts Treatment[/B]
The following guidelines are suggested to treat fire coral cuts:
• Rinse with seawater. Avoid fresh water because it will increase pain.
• Apply topical acetic acid (vinegar) or isopropyl alcohol.
• Remove tentacles with tweezers.
• Immobilize the extremity because movement may cause the venom to spread.
• Apply hydrocortisone cream 2-3 times daily as needed for itching. Discontinue immediately if any signs of infection appear.

If the person who has come into contact with fire coral develops shortness of breath; swelling in the tongue, face, or throat; or other signs of an allergic reaction, treat for an allergic reaction. If no signs of allergic reaction are present, pain may be relieved with 1-2 tablets of acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 4 hours and/or 1-2 tablets of ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) every 6-8 hours.

[B]When to Seek Medical Care[/B]
• In severe cases, seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
• Consult a doctor about treatment with available medications.

Haaaaaa she is right
Michael

I got stung badly once while diving (Before I liked sps)

While snorkeling in the VI, I've seen quite a few people touch fire coral. I've been lucky enough not too because I know what to look for and am religious about not touching anything. Supposedly, ammonia is good for relieving the stinging and I've seen them use windex on affected areas. Never had it but I've heard it works. Just don't use it near the tank!