Weever fish and other fish with venomous spines

Stings from the spines of venomous fish can occur while fishing, bathing or handling. Gutting of fish can also cause symptoms as the toxin has an effect after the fish has died.

Venomous fish in Norway

Weever fish (Trachinus draco) can be found from the Swedish coast up to Trondheim Fjord. Other fish with venomous spines such as rabbit fish (Chimaera monstrosa), spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) and brown bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) are also found in coastal areas. Poisoning with golden redfish (Sebastes norvegicus) is uncertain, but experience shows that it causes similar symptoms to other venomous fish.

Symptoms if you are stung

• Intense pain in and around the puncture site is common. The pain can radiate outwards.
• Swelling, redness and impaired mobility are common. The swelling can in some cases develop and become extensive.
• Dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain and vomiting occur.
• The pain usually passes within 24 hours, but local symptoms can be seen for days to weeks after being stung.
• Complications and long-term effects may occur.

First aid in case of stings

• Rapid immersion in very hot water usually provides good pain relief. Immerse the area of the body with the sting into water as hot you can tolerate (approx. 40-45°C). Check the temperature first by dipping an unaffected part of the body into the water (to avoid scalding).
• Continue treatment with hot water until the pain has subsided (often within 30-45 minutes) or up to 90 minutes. Consider other pain relief if treatment with hot water is ineffective.
• Tetanus vaccine must be considered.
• In case of persistent severe pain after completing hot water treatment, severe general discomfort or recurrent symptoms, it is recommended to see a doctor.