Beware of the Spider Fish

Written by David Manley   Wednesday, 04 June 2008

Richard Bailey visiting from England was stung by a 'Pez De Araña' which translates as 'spider fish' at the sea pool at Castillo del Romeral.  The sting produced a little blood but within seconds he experienced serious pain which quickly became intense.  By the time he reached the hospital his hand and lower arm was swollen and numb.  He was shaking, feeling sick and his breathing was starting to be effected.

Seven injections followed by two courses of tablets and some anti inflammatory pain killing cream later, he left hospital after being told the pain would last for over eight hours

and the best thing to do was have a few glasses of whisky and try to sleep!

As he prepares to fly home three days later his hand and lower arm are still very swollen and the site of the sting has a large blister.

The Pez De Araña is typically between 10 and 40 centimeters long and buries itself in the sandy bottom, leaving only the eyes and the dorsal fin visible.  It has a sting in the dorsal fin that is poisonous and also poisonous stings at the gills.

If stung immediate medical treatment must be sought as if left respiratory difficulty, blurred vision, and convulsions can quickly follow.

Last Updated ( Thursday, 04 September 2008 )