New research conducted by University of Michigan graduate student Jeremy J. Wright, revealed that more than 1,000 catfish species may be venomous. Histological examinations of 158 catfish species revealed between 1,250 and 1,625 catfish species “should be presumed venomous.”
Venomous Catfish
Venomous glands are found in the sharp, bony spines along the edge of dorsal and pectoral fins of the fish. When the catfish feels threatened, the spines lock into place. When a spine jabs a predator, the membranes surrounding the venom glands are torn, releasing venom into the wound.
Normally used to defend itself against other fish, the venom’s sting can pack a powerful punch to humans – as many a fisherman can attest. The venom poisons nerves and breaks down red blood cells. Common symptoms include severe pain, swelling, muscle spasm, respiratory distress and complications from a secondary infection. In other parts of the world, the toxic venom can be deadly to humans.
The paper, Diversity, Phylogenetic Distribution, and Origins of Venomous Catfishes, was recently published in the BMC Evolutionary Biology.
Catfish photo Eric Engbretson
