Fin's Fish Guide
The Bearded ghoul (Inimicus didactylus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Synanceiidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The bearded ghoul is a stinger (Synanceiidae), a close relative of the stonefish, from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has an irregular, stocky body with warty skin and colourful, finger-like lower pectoral fin rays with which it 'walks' over the bottom. It lies half-buried on sand and silt bottoms of lagoon and seaward reefs and waits as an ambush hunter for small fishes and crustaceans. The dorsal fin spines carry potent venom; a sting causes intense pain and requires medical care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bearded ghoul?
The Bearded ghoul has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Warty skin and finger-like pectoral fin rays for 'walking' over the bottom; powerful venom in the dorsal spines.
Where does the Bearded ghoul live?
The Bearded ghoul lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; sandy and silty bottoms of reefs.
How big does the Bearded ghoul get?
The Bearded ghoul grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Bearded ghoul dangerous to humans?
The Bearded ghoul is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The dorsal fin spines carry potent venom; a sting causes intense, burning pain and swelling. Immerse the wound in hot water (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove spine fragments and seek urgent medical care.
Is the Bearded ghoul edible?
The Bearded ghoul is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Inimicus
More from the family Synanceiidae
Want the complete picture on the Bearded ghoul?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bearded ghoul is one of 12,519 species in the app.