Passage II

Scuba Diving among the Barracudas

Every winter, thousands of visitors, come to southern Florida. Many of them try scuba diving. One of the country's fastest-growing sports. Almost every diving center in the Florida Keys have boats equipped to take divers to the coral reef that lies close offshore along Florida's Atlantic coast. You don't even have to be a certified diver to join the fun. With a brief course in the proper use of scuba gear, even a beginner can dive safely when accompanied by an instructor acting as a guide.

Just imagine what you might see if you were to go diving. As you glide through the pleasant blue-green waters of the coral reef, some fish may swim up and peer at you through the clear glass of your waterproof mask. It seems that they're as curious about you as you are about them.

You'll be wise, though, to stay alert. Drifting lazily there behind your shoulder may be a barracuda, waiting for you to catch a dinner for it. These streamlined predators do not ordinarily attack humans, but many have learned, by experience that a fish wounded by a diver's spear is easy prey. On the other hand, beginning scuba divers should gain confidence before trying spearfishing, so they won't panic when you actually attract a barracuda. (27)

Divers soon learn that most of their fear of ocean predators is based on first impressions. The barracuda's appearance has given it a mostly undeserved bad reputation. The barracuda, however, is just one of many interesting species of marine life to be found along Florida's coasts. That elongated head, with their sharp teeth and intense stare, might intimidate you, but if you turn and point a finger at the fish, you will usually scare it away. It holds the world's record for the underwater dash, it's probably as wary of your unfamiliar size, shape, and smell as you are of its speed.