Sea Creature of the Week

"The Sea Creature of the Week" 

Stonefish 

Synaceia verrucosa 

This is a creature that could be deadly to both ME and YOU! As a matter of fact, it is said to be the most deadly fish in the world!!!! Stonefish are unique fish that contain venom so powerful, researchers say, that if it strikes a human.....the human can die in two hours! The venomous spines are found on its back, which makes stepping on this fish very painful and deadly! It is important when visiting the ocean to be aware where you step! Frightening, huh? 

The body of a stonefish is very well camouflaged. They are usually brown or gray and sit very still, resembling a stone (rock)....this is where their name comes from. Some may have red, orange, and yellow body colors, blending in with the reef it lives in. They usually live in the Pacific, the Great Barrier Reef, or shallow reef waters from the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean. They are carnivores, eating on small fish and shrimp. 

Many aquariums have stonefish in their tanks, so hopefully that's the only run in you have with one! :-) Check out pictures of this scary, but cool creature: