The ocean will forever remain a mystery to mankind. We can only imagine what creatures delve into the deepest parts of the oceans, unreachable to scientists and marine biologists.
However, over the past century, scientists have discovered some of the most poisonous fish known to mankind. Did you know that some of these are prepared as delicious meals in certain international cuisines?
Join me as I introduce you to some fish you wouldn’t want to encounter on your next diving expedition!
1. Lionfish
I never understood why snorkelers and professional divers feared this striking little fish. At first glance, you would think just how gorgeous this fish is, right? But among those colorful fins, something lethal is hiding.
Venomous spines that can temporarily paralyze you and cause nausea and shortness of breath. However, once stripped of its venomous spikes, the Lionfish can be consumed like any other fish. Would you dare try this specialty?
2. Barracuda
Once you see Barracuda’s teeth, I’m guessing you can understand why they’re on this list.
Barracudas have powerful jaws, and their sharp teeth make them a frightening predator. Getting bitten by one of these fish is no small matter. While attacks on humans are rare, it’s wise to stay cautious around them.
They’re known to swim after snorkelers and one wrong move could trigger the Barracuda to bite you. Scary, isn’t it?
3. Electric Eel
When I was little, I was certain that Electric Eels were just made-up cartoon villains. Imagine my face once my parents explained to me this creature is as real as me and you.
Electric Eels have special little organs that can release charges up to 650 volts. If this creature touches you deep down in the water, the encounter would be fatal.
4. Pufferfish
The Pufferfish is probably the most famous venomous fish. Its liver contains a lethal poison called tetrodotoxin, making it dangerous to touch, especially when puffed up.
Despite this, it’s considered a delicacy in Japanese cuisine. Chefs must have special training and a license to prepare and serve this fish.
5. Stingray
Stingrays are actually known as gentle and calm creatures. They bury themselves in the ocean floor, and when scared they usually swim away.
But if you accidentally step on a Stingray, they lash out their tail which has venomous blades. This could be fatal, and sadly this is how the world lost one of the most famous conservationists, Steve Irwin.
6. Piranhas
Another fish that haunts our nightmares because of movies is the Piranha. While they have sharp teeth and might nip at your feet in the water, potentially costing you a toe or two, they won’t devour you like movies often suggest.
They do form huge schools, but not to hunt down their prey. They feel safer like this! This makes them a bit less scary, right?
7. Moray Eel
This Eel species deserved a place on our list for one simple reason. The Moray Eel has a second jaw! Once they bite their prey, the second jaw aligns with the first one and it helps them gulp down their meal.
Attacks on humans have been recorded, but they only occur when the eel feels disturbed or threatened. It’s best to keep your distance if you encounter a Moray Eel.