While some venomous fish are not attractive enough to be suitable for private aquaria, others, particularly the lionfish (or butterfly cod), are particularly appealing. For the protection of the owner, as well as that of the fish, they should always be handled with a fish net. A sting from a lionfish is immediately extremely painful. Subsequently, sweating, nausea and vomiting may occur. The penetration of the skin also presents the risk of infection. Although rarely, death has occurred from the sting of a lionfish.
Last updated: October 2007
