Stonefish (most venomous fish)

The stonefish is a master of disguise. It looks like a bumpy rock on the seabed. This predator stays still to ambush prey.

You will find them in Southeast Asia. They live in shallow reefs from 0 m to 30 m deep. I once saw one near Anilao in 2017 while I was looking for nudibranchs. It sat perfectly still on a coral ledge.

Never touch the reef bottom blindly. Most accidents happen because divers land on them during a descent. Always check your footing before you put weight on any surface. If you get stung, seek medical help immediately because the pain is extreme. Use a suction device if available while waiting for the boat.