Fin's Fish Guide
The Red Sea stonefish (Synanceia nana) is a saltwater fish of the family Synanceiidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The Red Sea stonefish is a stonefish (Synanceiidae) from shallow reef water of the Red Sea and western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a stocky body covered with warts and skin flaps that looks strikingly like an overgrown stone or piece of coral rubble. As a motionless ambush predator it lies buried on the bottom and engulfs passing prey with a lightning-fast suction strike. The dorsal spines inject an extremely powerful venom; a sting is a life-threatening emergency.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red Sea stonefish?
The Red Sea stonefish 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 Red Sea stonefish live?
The Red Sea stonefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Em.
How big does the Red Sea stonefish get?
The Red Sea stonefish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Red Sea stonefish dangerous to humans?
The Red Sea stonefish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. This is one of the most venomous fish in the world; a step or sting from the dorsal spines injects a huge dose of venom and is a life-threatening emergency. Call emergency services at once. Immerse the part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) against the pain and keep the victim still; in hospital a specific antivenom may be needed.
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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 Red Sea stonefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red Sea stonefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.