Today’s news / Venomous weaver fish spread along Danish coasts
The weever with poison barbs on gills and dorsal fin is on the rise, so bathers on Danish coasts should be cautious. (Archive photo). Photo: Morten Juhl/Ritzau Scanpix

Venomous weaver fish spread along Danish coasts

Weaver fish with venomous spines are thriving and spreading on Danish shores according to reports from Danish fishermen as stated by DTU Aqua. Biologist Henrik Carl from the Natural History Museum of Denmark attributes their rising numbers to warmer seas and fewer natural predators, with an ailing cod population being specifically highlighted. The weaver fish, which buries itself in shallow sand, was once mostly found in Kattegat coastal areas but now inhabits waters by Øresund, Storebælt, and Lillebælt. Stepping on it can cause intense pain and using bathing shoes is advised. To counter a sting, keeping the area under hot water for about 30 minutes is recommended. The rise in weaver fish population could unbalance ecosystems, as they may consume large amounts of young flatfish. Introducing weaver fish as a culinary choice in Denmark might help control their population.