Meet the worlds most venomous fish; the lionfish and stonefish.
When we consider the dangers of the ocean, we usually picture large, scary-looking sharks. However, these mediocre (but mean-looking) fish are more deadly than most sharks. Discover the world’s most deadly fish, whose venom can be fatal to humans.
The Stonefish
The stonefish is the most venomous fish genus in the world. The genus Synanceua consists of several species of stonefish. Despite their fear-inducing venom, divers often swim right past stonefish because of their incredible camouflage abilities. Their textured skin resembles the surrounding rocks and coral.
Stonefish Venom
Stonefish release venom only when threatened or put under pressure, by the 13 spines that line their back. The venom is stored in two sacs at the base of each spine. Incidents between humans and stonefish usually occur when humans mistakenly step on the stonefish. The venom causes rapid swelling and intense pain at the site of the sting.
Stonefish Are Incredibly Fast
Stonefish are master predators, waiting patiently in the sand for the perfect moment to strike their prey. They move extremely fast, attacking their prey in as little as 0.015 seconds. They are however not aggressive towards humans, unless provoked.
Keep an Eye Out for Stonefish
Stonefish are found along the coasts of the Indian and Pacific regions. They are extremely hardy fish that can survive up to 24 hours on land. If you see anything that looks like a stonefish on land, think twice before picking it up.
The Potent Venom of a Lionfish
Lionfish are also highly venomous to humans. They use their venomous spines to fend off predators when they are threatened. This type of venomous fish belongs to the Scorpaenidae family, which means ‘scorpionfish’. The red lionfish depicted is the most common type.
Invasive species
Lionfish are highly invasive. Their expanding population threatens native species and their habitat. In the United States, people are encouraged to fish for lionfish to help limit their negative impacts on the environment.
Lionfish Appetites
Lionfish are nicknamed the vacuums of the sea. In regions where they are prolific, they may consume 460,000 prey per acre per year. In some regions, they have reduced the native fish populations by up to 90 percent.
Conclusion: Venomous Fish
Lionfish and stonefish stand out because of their venomous spines. The stonefish is crowned the most venomous. The lionfish, while also venomous, is well-known because of its environmental impact. As invasive species, lionfish populations pose a threat to coral reef ecosystems.
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