SPINY DEVIL FISH - (Inimicus didactylus)

Havannah Harbour, Vanuatu. Approx. 25 mtrs. depth.

One of our favourite fish – a master of disguise they lay hidden in the sand waiting for their prey. Sometimes seen crawling across the bottom using leg like appendages, when threatened they fan out their pectoral fins which display yellow and orange colours.

Not to be toyed with, these fish are closely related to stone fish and will give a very nasty sting. We have seen these in less than a metre of water on the shore – just waiting for an unsuspecting foot – a good idea to wear foot protection and shuffle your feet when entering the water for a swim!

If stung the best immediate medical aid is very hot water over the area of the sting and then seek medical attention if the sting is severe.

NOTE - this photo has been rendered for large print - it is hanging on our wall at A1 size. Very large file.

Photography by John Warmington