Fin's Fish Guide
The Dornorn (Synanceia verrucosa) is a saltwater fish of the family Synanceiidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Indo-Pacific; sand and rubble areas of reef flats, often camouflaged among rocks.
Description
The reef stonefish is the most widespread stonefish of the family Synanceiidae from the Indo-Pacific and is regarded as the most venomous fish in the world. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a squat, warty body covered with skin flaps and growth that makes it blend perfectly into rocks and coral rubble on reef flats. It lies motionless on the bottom and, as an ambush predator, lightning-fast seizes passing fishes and crustaceans. The thirteen dorsal spines are equipped with powerful venom glands; a sting, often from someone stepping on the fish, is excruciating and can be fatal without treatment. Be extremely careful in its habitat.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dornorn?
The Dornorn has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Regarded as the most venomous fish in the world; perfectly camouflaged, with thirteen powerfully venomous dorsal fin spines.
Where does the Dornorn live?
The Dornorn lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; sand and rubble areas of reef flats, often camouflaged among rocks.
How big does the Dornorn get?
The Dornorn grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 27 cm.
Is the Dornorn dangerous to humans?
The Dornorn is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The dorsal spines contain an extremely potent venom; a sting is excruciating and can be life-threatening. Never step on the fish, immerse the wound immediately in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and call emergency services at once - an antivenom exists.
Is the Dornorn edible?
The Dornorn is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Synanceia
More from the family Synanceiidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dornorn is one of 12,519 species in the app.