Venomous weever fish warning issued for Essex beachgoers

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 3 Nov, 23:46 · Archive

A warning has been issued for beachgoers along the Essex coast over venomous weever fish spotted in the area.

Campaign group Seaside Explorers has issued a warning to beachgoers using the Harwich coastline over venomous weever fish spotted in the area. The group advised beach users to 'put on your beach shoes' when entering the water.

The lesser weever, known scientifically as Echiichthys vipera, is a small marine fish found in British waters that can grow to around 15cm long. It is particularly linked with sandy coastal waters and usually stays buried under sand, with only its eyes and dorsal fin exposed. The fish's black dorsal spines can inject venom if it is disturbed or stepped on, causing what the campaign group described as 'really painful, paralysing sting that can lead to infection'.

Lesser weevers enter very shallow water during warmer months and bury themselves in sandy or muddy sea beds. This means paddlers and people walking barefoot may not realise a fish is beneath their feet. Their yellowish or sandy colouring makes them difficult to spot.

Essex Wildlife Trust includes the species in its local wildlife guide and recommends wearing beach shoes when paddling in sandy waters to reduce the risk of stings. Previous sightings have been reported around the county's coastline.

Lesser weever fish are among only a few venomous fish found in British waters. Risk of encounters is greater during warmer summer months.

How it is being reported

• Warning issued over venomous fish spotted along Essex coastlineA warning has been issued for beachgoers along the Essex coast concerning the venomous weever fish.Echo (Basildon) · 3 Nov, 17:00
• Warning issued over venomous fish spotted along Essex coastlineA warning has been issued for beachgoers along the Essex coast concerning the venomous weever fish.Brentwood Guardian · 3 Nov, 17:00
• Warning issued over venomous fish spotted along Essex coastlineA warning has been issued for beachgoers along the Essex coast concerning the venomous weever fish.Colchester Gazette · 3 Nov, 17:00

In this story: Seaside Explorers · Essex Wildlife Trust · Harwich · Essex

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