Synanceia

Synanceia is a genus of fish of the family Synanceiidae, the Stonefishes, whose members are venomous, dangerous, and even fatal to humans. It is one of the most venomous fish currently known in the world. They are found in the coastal regions of the Indo-Pacific.

Description

Synanceia are primarily marine, though some species are known to live in rivers. Its species have potent neurotoxins secreted from glands at the base of their needle-like dorsal fin spines which stick up when disturbed or threatened.

Behavior

The fish's stone-like appearance allows it to blend in with its surroundings. Because of this, swimmers may not notice them, and may inadvertently step on them, triggering a sting. When stepped on, the fish injects a quantity of venom proportional to the amount of pressure applied to it.

Treatment

Immediate treatment for suspected stonefish stings includes immersion of the affected limb in hot water, with a temperature as hot as the victim can tolerate. This is followed by administration of stonefish antivenom, which is the only definitive treatment.

Species

The genus Synanceia contains the following species:

• Synanceia horrida (Linnaeus, 1766) (Reef stonefish)
• Synanceia verrucosa (Bloch & Schneider, 1801) (Stonefish)

See also

• List of dangerous fishes
• Venomous fish
• Stonefish stings in Australia

References

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