Fin's Fish Guide
The Wasp waspfish (Paracentropogon vespa) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetrarogidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Wasp waspfish is a waspfish (Tetrarogidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, laterally compressed, brown-marbled body with a dorsal fin starting high on the head and skin flaps, strongly camouflaged on the bottom. As a motionless ambush predator it lies among sand, weed and rubble 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 waspfish?
The Wasp waspfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Wasp waspfish live?
The Wasp waspfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia
How big does the Wasp waspfish get?
The Wasp waspfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Wasp waspfish dangerous to humans?
The Wasp waspfish 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 Paracentropogon
More from the family Tetrarogidae
Want the complete picture on the Wasp waspfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Wasp waspfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.