Fin's Fish Guide
The Onestick stingfish (Minous coccineus) is a saltwater fish of the family Synanceiidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and others
Description
The Onestick stingfish is a stinging fish (Synanceiidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, strongly camouflaged body with skin flaps and loose, finger-like lower pectoral rays with which it 'walks' over the bottom. As an ambush predator it lies half-buried on sand and mud bottoms. The dorsal spines are venomous and can give a very painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Onestick stingfish?
The Onestick stingfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Onestick stingfish live?
The Onestick stingfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and others
How big does the Onestick stingfish get?
The Onestick stingfish grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Onestick stingfish dangerous to humans?
The Onestick stingfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Minous
More from the family Synanceiidae
Want the complete picture on the Onestick stingfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Onestick stingfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.