A new study says divers should not be worried about being approached by sea snakes in the Great Barrier Reef. Research published in Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation suggests that the highly venomous olive sea snakes only "attack" divers because they are "highly aroused" and looking for a potential mates. In documenting hundreds of encounters, scientist Tim Lynch says the perceived aggressive behavior, such as coiling around an arm, is actually a courtship response. Lynch concludes that poor eyesight also contributes to the actions from sea snakes. Divers are encouraged to "keep still and avoid retaliation" when such an incident occurs.
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