Trachinus
Trachinus is a genus of venomous marine fish commonly known as “weever fish”. These fish are found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea. They are known for their venomous spines, which can deliver a painful sting to humans.
Common Names
Weever fish are also known as "stingfish", "sea scorpion", "dragon fish", and "firefish", reflecting their venomous nature and appearance.
Characteristics
Weever fish are typically small, ranging in size from 15 to 50 centimeters. They have elongated bodies with flattened heads and large, protruding eyes. Their dorsal fin is long and continuous, with the first few spines being venomous. The spines are covered in a thin membrane, which can be easily broken, releasing the venom into the wound. Weever fish have a distinctive coloration, with brown, grey, or yellow bodies, often with dark blotches or stripes.
Environments
Weever fish are demersal fish, meaning they live on the bottom of the seafloor. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms, often burying themselves in the sediment, leaving only their eyes and dorsal spines exposed. They are ambush predators, waiting for prey to come within range before striking. They feed on small fish, crustaceans, and worms.
Venom
The venom of weever fish is a complex mixture of toxins that can cause severe pain, swelling, redness, and numbness. In some cases, the venom can also cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and even paralysis. The pain from a weever fish sting can last for several hours or even days. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you are stung by a weever fish.
References
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