Fin's Fish Guide
The Dornorn (Synanceia horrida) is a brackish-water fish of the family Synanceiidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The estuarine stonefish is a stonefish (Synanceiidae) from the Indo-West Pacific and is one of the most venomous fishes in the world. The species has a stocky, warty body that looks like an algae-covered stone; it lies largely buried in sand or mud of coastal reefs and estuaries and is therefore hard to see. As an ambush hunter it swallows passing fishes and shrimps in a flash. The thirteen dorsal fin spines bear powerful venom glands; a sting - often from stepping on it - is extremely painful and can be fatal. Seek immediate medical help for a sting.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dornorn?
The Dornorn has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. One of the most venomous fishes in the world; camouflaged as a stone, with thirteen venomous dorsal fin spines.
Where does the Dornorn live?
The Dornorn lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coastal reefs and estuaries, buried in sand or mud.
How big does the Dornorn get?
The Dornorn grows to a maximum of about 60 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 fin spines contain a very powerful, potentially deadly venom; this is one of the most dangerous fishes in the world. A sting causes extreme pain and swelling. Immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated and seek emergency medical care IMMEDIATELY; 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
Want the complete picture on the Dornorn?
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.