Certain creatures will inflict injury only when they are:

Many marine creatures, such as certain types of jellyfish, sea urchins, and other potentially harmful organisms, typically inflict injury as a means of self-protection rather than aggression. When these creatures feel threatened or are disturbed, their instinct is to defend themselves against perceived threats.

Defensive behavior allows these animals to use their stinging cells or other means of defense to ward off predators or aggressors. This reactive behavior is a survival mechanism that ensures their safety in a vulnerable environment. Understanding this concept is crucial for divers as it highlights the importance of being cautious and respectful of marine life to avoid provoking these animals unintentionally.

In contrast, creatures that act aggressively or intentionally attack can be less common, and many of the more dangerous encounters occur when an animal feels threatened. Thus, recognizing that injuries often occur in a defensive context helps divers appreciate the behavior of aquatic life and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe distance from potentially harmful organisms.