Venomous Fishes: Scorpionfish
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Venomous Fishes: Scorpionfish
There are two families of fishes inhabiting Guam's shallow reef waters that have venomous fin spines. They are the scorpionfishes and rabbitfishes (see Sesyon/Hiteng).
Lionfishes, stonefish and the scorpionfish itself are members of the scorpionfish family. All scorpionfishes have venomous spines. These spines are located in the fins on the back and underside. Punctures from the spines can cause extreme pain, swelling, and in rare cases, even death. There are 25 kinds of scorpionfishes in Guam's waters. They have large mouths and and feed on small fishes, crabs, and shrimps. Most scorpionfishes are well camouflaged and very difficult to see. They generally live on the bottom in rocky or weedy areas. However, the lionfishes may be quite colorful and conspicuous and often swim in the open.
Lionfish / Nufo' Påbu
Pterois volitans
Image from Coral reefs CD
There are five kinds of lionfishes at Guam. The largest of them, Pterois volitans, reaches a length of 13 inches (33 cm). Lionfishes live in shallow reef waters from the low tide line to over 200 feet (60 m) deep. They are slow moving and will stand their ground when harassed, pointing their venomous spines at their foe. They make spectacular aquarium pets and when properly cared for, can become quite tame and grow rapidly. But they are potentially dangerous and should be kept in a place innaccessible to children.
Scorpionfish / Nufo'
Parascorpaena mossambica
Stonefish / Nufo'
Synanceia verrucosa
Image from Coral Reefs CD
The stonefish may be the world's most venomous fish and has caused many human deaths. Its spines are easily able to penetrate a tennis shoe. Most wounds from the stonefish are not fatal but cause extreme pain and swelling which may result in death of surrounding tissue or amputation of fingers or toes. Fortunately, stonefish prefer to rest against rocks or under ledges where they are not likely to be stepped on. The stonefish reaches a length of 13 inches (33 cm) and is the largest kind of scorpionfish on Guam's reefs.
Guam Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy, 9/27/2005
