California scorpionfish

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Its spines contain venom-producing glands. The venom is cardiotoxic, meaning it affects the heart; in laboratory studies it caused changes in blood pressure and heart rhythm. A spine prick can cause severe, throbbing pain, swelling, numbness and discolouration of the finger, with pain spreading up the arm. Nausea, faintness and pale, clammy skin can also occur.1

Hur farlig är den för människor?

It has been responsible for many human injuries and has been called one of the most noxious marine animals in California waters. Fishermen are most often affected when removing the fish from a hook. The effects can feel much like a rattlesnake bite, and one victim developed pericarditis, an inflammation of the lining around the heart. In one reported case, the victim recovered in about two weeks.1

Vad gör den när den är rädd?

When pulled from the water, it flares the spines on its fins and gill covers, which makes it difficult to handle.1