Heteropneustes

Also known as the stinging or fossil catfish, H. fossilis is not recommended to the inexperienced due to its venomous nature. The venom is contained in sacs at the base of the pectoral spines. A sting from one of these is very painful indeed, in some very rare cases fatal. It goes without saying that extreme care must be exercised when performing tank maintenance, or if you need to move the fish for any reason. If stung, the wound should be immersed in water as hot as you can stand, as this will...