Stonefish
(Synanceia sp.)

Unfortunately, most people “find” Stonefish when they tread on them. They inhabit coral reefs and mud flats.

They may grow to 50cm. They have 13 sharp spines along their back, each associated with 2 venom glands.

The venom of Stonefish contains a number of ingredients: one of these can cause damage to the heart.

As Stonefish are difficult to spot, wear shoes in rock pools or when reef walking, and handle fish with nets.

Stonefish antivenom became available in 1959.

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