What is a stonefish?
A stonefish is one of the most venomous fish in the world, found in tropical waters around northern Australia. It is camouflaged to look like a rock or coral, and its spines can inject painful, potentially dangerous venom.
Stonefish live on reefs, rocky areas and mudflats in shallow coastal waters, including parts of Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia.
They lie still on the seabed, blending in with their surroundings, and ambush small fish and shrimp that swim close.
Dangerous spines
The stonefish has 13 sharp spines along its back, each connected to venom glands. People are usually stung when they step on a stonefish by accident.
A sting causes extreme pain and swelling and can be life-threatening without treatment. First aid involves immersing the wound in hot water, and medical help should be sought. An antivenom is available in Australia.
To avoid stings, people should wear sturdy shoes when walking on reefs or in shallow tropical waters. Stonefish are eaten as a delicacy in some Asian countries after the spines are removed.