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marine

Stonefish

Synanceia verrucosa
Highly Dangerous
Venomous

Description

Camouflaged as a rock. 13 dorsal spines deliver venom when stepped on.

Habitat

Shallow reefs, sandy bottoms, tide pools.

Where Found in Thailand

Andaman coast and Gulf reefs. World's most venomous fish.

Symptoms

  • Excruciating pain
  • Swelling
  • Paralysis
  • Shock
  • Possible death

First Aid — DO

  • Immerse foot in HOT water (45°C) up to 90 min
  • Remove visible spines
  • Hospital for antivenom

DO NOT

  • DO NOT walk barefoot on reefs
  • DO NOT ignore — pain alone can cause shock

When to seek help

Antivenom is the only definitive treatment — go to hospital immediately.

Call 1669

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