Pufferfish contain tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin found in their skin, ovaries, liver, and intestines. Improperly prepared fugu can be deadly due to tetrodotoxin poisoning, which causes paralysis and, in severe cases, respiratory failure. ¹⁾

Stonefish are the most venomous fish in the world. They have venomous spines along their dorsal fin that inject venom when disturbed, causing severe pain, swelling, and sometimes death if not treated promptly. ²⁾

Lionfish have venomous spines that can cause intense pain, swelling, and even paralysis. They are invasive in some parts of the world and pose a threat to native marine ecosystems. ³⁾

Scorpionfish have venomous spines and camouflage that make them difficult to see among rocks and coral. Their venom can cause severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage. ⁴⁾

While not a fish, the crown-of-thorns starfish has venomous spines that can cause puncture wounds and severe pain. They feed on coral and can devastate coral reef ecosystems during population outbreaks. ⁵⁾

Stingrays have venomous spines located on their tails. When stepped on or threatened, they can strike with their tail, injecting venom that causes intense pain, swelling, and in rare cases, death. ⁶⁾

Toadfish have venomous spines on their dorsal fin that can cause pain, swelling, and tissue damage if stepped on or handled improperly. Found in coastal waters worldwide. ⁷⁾

Box jellyfish have tentacles covered with stinging cells called nematocysts. Their venom is extremely potent and can cause cardiovascular collapse and death within minutes if stung. ⁸⁾

The blue-ringed octopus is small but highly venomous, with venom that contains tetrodotoxin and other toxins. Their bite may initially be painless, but within minutes, paralysis and respiratory failure can occur, potentially leading to death. ⁹⁾

Ciguatera toxin is a marine toxin produced by certain microscopic algae. It accumulates in reef fish like grouper, snapper, and barracuda, causing gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in humans who consume contaminated fish. ¹⁰⁾

Fugu sushi is a delicacy in Japan prepared by licensed chefs who remove toxic organs to minimize the risk of tetrodotoxin poisoning. Despite strict regulations, cases of fugu poisoning still occur annually. ¹¹⁾

Red lionfish are an invasive species in the Atlantic and Caribbean with venomous spines. Their venom can cause severe pain, nausea, and respiratory distress in humans. ¹²⁾

Found in tropical waters, stonefish blend into their surroundings, making them difficult to see and avoid. Their venom can cause excruciating pain and potentially life-threatening symptoms if not treated promptly. ¹³⁾

While not venomous, the moorish idol's flesh can be toxic if consumed by humans. It contains a toxin called methylamine, which can cause symptoms similar to ciguatera fish poisoning. ¹⁴⁾

Globefish are a type of pufferfish found in various regions, including the Mediterranean. Like other pufferfish, they contain tetrodotoxin in their internal organs, making them lethal if not prepared correctly. ¹⁵⁾