Venomous stonefish reported in the Gulf of Mannar

The stonefish, a venomous fish reported in the Gulf of Mannar, has a rock-like appearance and 13 sharp venomous spines along its back. Contact with the spines can cause severe pain and swelling, and may lead to paralysis. The fish lies still among sand or rocks and catches small fish, insects, crabs and prawns that come close. Fishers say it can be caught in nets used in the Gulf of Mannar and is released carefully to avoid contact with its spines.