Fin's Fish Guide
The Wasp velvetfish (Acanthosphex leurynnis) is a saltwater fish of the family Aploactinidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Asia: Australia, Brunei Darsm, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia and others
Description
The wasp velvetfish is a velvetfish (Aploactinidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body covered with a velvety fine layer and skin flaps, strongly camouflaged on the bottom. As an ambush predator it lies motionless on sand and mud bottoms and snaps at small crustaceans and small fish. The dorsal spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Wasp velvetfish?
The Wasp velvetfish 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 Wasp velvetfish live?
The Wasp velvetfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Brunei Darsm, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia and others
How big does the Wasp velvetfish get?
The Wasp velvetfish grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Wasp velvetfish dangerous to humans?
The Wasp velvetfish 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
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Aploactinidae
Want the complete picture on the Wasp velvetfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Wasp velvetfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.