Fish abroad and while traveling: are they dangerous, where do you encounter them, where can you see them?

What should you do if you encounter poisonous fish?

• Only a few species of fish are poisonous to the touch. The teeth and spines that fish have are more dangerous.
• However, if you keep your distance, fish, sharks, rays and other small swimming beauties will not cause any problems.
• If you go swimming without anything on your feet, you run the risk of stepping on one of the spiky or even poisonous fish. The chance that you will step on one is not very big, but it certainly happens regularly in a coral-rich environment.

What should you do if you are stung or bitten by a poisonous fish?

• Depending on the species, a quick visit to the doctor is recommended.
• Since this is not always a reasonable alternative, water shoes / flippers / sandals are therefore very important.
• On the Mediterranean and North Sea beaches, many bathers are stung every year by the small weever, which burrows into the sand. This fish can cause you a lot of pain for weeks if you do not quickly put your foot in water hotter than forty degrees after the sting (the proteins in the poison break down).

How dangerous are rays?

• Stingrays can also sting (very) meanly.
• They often lie buried in the bottom waiting for prey, if you then step off your surfboard, the ray can sting out of fear.
• Depending on the exact species and the exact place where you are stung, you may need to see a doctor quickly.

Where are good places to spot fish abroad?

• The best places to spot many different species of fish are the tropical and sub-tropical coral reefs
• These coral reefs offer plenty of space for marine life and juvenile fish, which in turn attracts many larger and super-sized fish
• Many coral reefs and underwater ecosystems are threatened by climate change, over-fertilisation (especially near estuaries), over-fishing and tourist activities. Before booking a trip it can be important to check the current fish and reef status.
• Regions and countries where the value of marine life has long been endorsed, for example through the establishment of nature reserves often have the most beautiful coral reefs to visit
• Check also snorkelling and diving destinations abroad