LIONFISH
There are many different species that are grouped under the collective title of Lionfish. Individual species belong to the family Pterois or Dendrochirus.
All members of this family are 'armed' with venomous needle-sharp spines down the back. Some species have additional spines around the gill covers. These spines are capable of injecting a cobra like venom, causing acute pain and, occasionally, a much more severe reaction.
the spines are only used in defence and the fish 'displays' its weaponry by being brightly coloured with in nature usually means danger, A warning to potential predators. Lionfish feed on small fishes and shrimp preferring to steer clear of any danger and are rarely a thought to humans if they are left to their own and looked at but definitely no touching.
Treatment of any wound is similar to that of the Weeverfish in that the area is immersed in hot water to denature the protein in the venom and therefore prevent the toxic effects.
Pterois volitans ( A member of the Lionfish family)
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