Ever wondered what is lurking below the waterline? These are the ten most dangerous fish in the world.
When the conversation of dangerous species comes into play, the first thing that springs to mind is enormous land mammals and slithering snakes.
However, there are many deadly species thriving below the murky waters. Here, we reveal the ten most dangerous fish in the world.
10. Shark – a cinematic predator
Sharks are world-known as one of the most dangerous predators. This is primarily due to the 1975 cinematic phenomenon, Jaws. That, and the fact that there have been countless deaths related to lethal shark encounters.
In 2020, there were 57 unprovoked attacks on record, and 39 provoked, not to mention the three boat attacks.
9. Barracuda – a speedy and aggressive fish
Of all of the most dangerous fish in the world, the barracuda is the fastest in the water.
Lurking in tropical seas, especially near islets or coral reefs, this fish has been known to attack its prey at incredible speed – from 0-90 kilometres per hour in mere moments, to be specific.
8. The Box Jellyfish – the most venomous marine animal
Did you know that the box jellyfish is the most venomous marine animal in the world?
Indeed, this species boasts oodles of poison that can kill whoever makes contact with it in just a few minutes. In fact, a simple sting can lead to cardiac arrest and even death!
Box jellyfish can be found as far north as California, U.S.A.
7. Piranha – a man-eating fish
Piranhas have ended up with a pretty well-known reputation as man-eaters. And while this isn’t entirely untrue, it has certainly been exaggerated in the media.
These species, which are one of the world’s most dangerous fish, originate from South America are carnivorous with razor-sharp teeth and a bad temper. Best not stumble across them when they’re in a foul mood, we reckon.
6. Tigerfish – Africa’s most dangerous fish
One sight of this fish, and you’ll never erase that face. Indeed, Tigerfish have a shocking image. Huge in size with enormous teeth, they are considered Africa’s most dangerous fish and undoubtedly one of the most dangerous fish in the world.
Tigerfish can weigh up to 70 kilos (154 pounds) and stretch to over 5.9 feet (1.8 meters) in length, making this fish a true force to be reckoned with.
5. Spotfin lionfish – an entirely poisonous species
The Spotfin lionfish may be visually stunning, but don’t let appearances fool you: they are one of the most dangerous fish in the world.
Entirely venomous in composition, it is safe to say you’d do well to keep your distance from this distinct brown and white stripe fish.
It’s worth noting, though, while a sting from this poisonous fish may cause severe pain, discomfort, and nausea, it is unlikely to cause death.
4. Electric eel – 330-650 volts of electricity to be exact
This South American fish is known world-over. Lurking in the depths, grey and sluggish, electric eels use their 330-650 volts to disarm their prey.
These dangerous predators can be found in the Amazon basin and can weigh up to 22 kg (48.5 pounds).
3. The Red Lionfish – a venomous, visually stunning fish
Although encounters with the red lionfish are rarely fatal, it is worth noting that they are also one of the world’s most dangerous fish.
Venomous fin spines serving up severely painful strings, we suggest you keep a good distance from this stunning species of fish.
2. Fugu – 25 times more poisonous than cyanide
This unique fish can swell with water when feeling intimidated. Also known as the pufferfish, this species has tetrodotoxin – a substance 25 times more poisonous than cyanide.
In fact, the fugu has poison in its skin, liver, and entrails and enough toxins to kill up to 30 people.
1. Stonefish – an easily missable and hazardous species
The stonefish is a familiar face. It has been named one of the world’s ugliest fish and has a memorable mug, to say the least.
Mimicking the form of sea rock, this chameleon-type fish is found in Indo-Pacific waters and is undoubtedly one of the most dangerous fish in the world. The result of misstepping on this fish in shallow water can be severe, even fatal!
