The vast majority of marine animals have ways to protect themselves, whether protection comes in the form of razor-sharp teeth, poisonous spines, or other unpleasantness. If you like to fish or enjoy swimming bodies of water other than pools, it’s important to know which fish species are dangerous and why. Get started on your ‘dangerous fish education’ by learning about the following species:
Bullhead Catfish
The bullhead and other (not) attractive catfish species feature three spines–two lateral and one dorsal–that easily puncture flesh. While the chances of a bullhead catfish killing you is unlikely unless you get pierced in the heart or something, the spines still hurt like heck. If you get stung, clean the wound immediately and get professional help if it worsens. A North American fish, the brown bullhead is the most common catfish in New York State.
Stonefish
Another not-attractive fish species, the stonefish blends into underwater rock formations. If you mistake the fish for a rock and are attacked, you have exactly 10 minutes to remove the venom from your system before it becomes very problematic. One of the most venomous fish on the planet, fear of stonefish dates back hundreds of years in Australia, as the animal is found in Indo-Pacific coastal areas.
Bull Shark
Sharks are easily some of the most feared creatures on Earth, with Great Whites especially demonized in films such as JAWS. However, sharks rarely attack humans unless said humans are bleeding profusely or flailing around in the water like injured prey. Bull sharks are one of the most dangerous shark species because they enjoy hanging out in shallow, warm water. The Florida Panhandle is a particular favorite.
Portuguese Man O’ War
Often mistaken for a jellyfish, the Portuguese Man O’ War is a siphonophore, or a colony of tiny creatures called zooids. And while neither the Man O’ War nor jellyfish are actually fish, their stings range from highly painful to super deadly. Found floating in warm waters around the world, sometimes in groups of 1,000 or more, the Man O’ War sting is ridiculously painful, but rarely deadly. They can even sting after they’ve perished.
Other highly dangerous fish species to watch out for include bluefish, barracuda, pike, cobia, piranha, alligator gar, assorted rays, and many others. Familiarize yourself with dangerous species associated with your region and stay safe!
Have you encountered a dangerous fish? Share your story in the comments section!