Is it safe to swim with children near coral reefs in Egypt, and can surgeonfish cause injuries?

From messages by 3 participants in 1 source · Last activity: 41 days ago

TL;DR

Swimming with children near Egyptian coral reefs is generally safe if you do not touch corals or feed fish. Surgeonfish may defend their territory around the reef, so calmly move away—or stay still briefly—if one approaches closely.

What the community said

Surgeonfish stay around coral formations and can defend their territory, so avoid swimming right up to the reef or touching corals.

coral reef

If a fish comes close to your feet, avoid sudden movements. Pause for a few seconds and let it swim away to reduce the chance of a defensive reaction.

avoid sudden movements

Do not feed fish in the sea, especially near reefs. Feeding can alter their normal behavior and may trigger a defensive response from surgeonfish.

do not feed fish