Fire ants – were accidentally introduced into the U.S. in the 1920’s from South America and affect 20 million people annually.  These aggressive ants actually sting you, injecting an alkaloid toxin called Solenopsin (Piperidine).

Jellyfish – sneak up on their victims.  Almost invisible to a swimmer or surfer, they attack without warning, with tentacles more than 3 feet long containing stingers (nematocysts) containing a protein based toxin. 

Sea Lice – larval stage jellyfish, sea anemones, or other cnidarians are invisible and usually found in shallow water swept in by ocean currents.  Children playing at the water’s edge and adults going in the water to cool off are usually stung around the bathing suit line. 

Bees, wasps, etc. – These insects’ stings cause a painful stinging, burning and itching sensation.  For some people, a sting may require a visit to the emergency room.  The toxin contains peptides and phospholipase proteins which cause cell degranulation.