The Greater weever (Trachinus draco) is one of the most dangerous fish you can encounter in the Adriatic Sea. Although it looks small and rather unimpressive, this fish hides a powerful venom in its spines that can cause severe pain, swelling, and other complications. That is why it is important to know how to recognize the greater weever, where it lives, and what to do if you get stung.
What is the Greater Weever and Where Can You Find It?
The Greater weever lives on sandy and muddy seabeds, often buried with only its eyes and dorsal fin sticking out. This camouflage makes it very hard to spot, and swimmers frequently step on it while entering the sea.
It is most commonly found in shallow waters, from half a meter to 30 meters deep, although scientific sources report that it can live as deep as 150 meters. Many bathers who are unaware of this fish are caught by surprise when they suddenly feel a sharp sting in their foot – in reality, they stepped on a greater weever.
This species is widespread across the Adriatic, especially in calm sandy bays. Families with children should be particularly cautious.
Why is the Greater Weever Dangerous?
The danger of the greater weever lies in its venomous spines. On its dorsal fin and gill covers are sharp spines filled with venom, which is injected into the body when contact occurs.
Symptoms of a Greater weever sting include:
- intense sharp pain immediately after the sting,
- swelling and redness,
- spreading pain in the affected area,
- dizziness, nausea, and in rare cases – loss of consciousness.
The sting of a greater weever is not life-threatening for a healthy person, but the pain is so strong that many compare it to a bone fracture. For children or sensitive individuals, the reaction can be more severe, which is why medical attention is often recommended.
First Aid for a Greater Weever Sting
If stung, the most important thing is to stay calm and act quickly. According to NHS.uk and medical first aid guidelines:
- Rinse the wound with seawater – never use fresh water, as it can worsen venom spread.
- Immerse the affected hand or foot in very hot water (as hot as you can tolerate, ideally for 30 minutes or longer). Heat denatures the protein-based venom and significantly reduces pain.
- Remove any visible spines with sterilized tweezers if possible.
- Seek medical help if the pain is severe, if the sting is deep, if children are involved, or if symptoms such as dizziness or nausea appear.
👉 Just like with the venomous lionfish in the Adriatic, quick reaction and proper first aid are the key to reducing complications.
How to Avoid the Greater Weever
Prevention is the best protection. Here are some practical tips:
- Wear water shoes when entering the sea, especially on sandy beaches.
- Do not stomp quickly in the shallows – move slowly and watch the seabed.
- If you notice a fish buried in the sand with only a fin showing – avoid it.
- Anglers should wear gloves when handling the catch, since greater weevers can also end up on the hook.
Greater Weever and Fishing – Can You Eat It?
Although known as a dangerous fish, the greater weever is edible and highly valued by many fishermen. Its meat is white, tender, and very tasty, similar to European hake.
However, caution is required when cleaning it, because the spines remain venomous even after the fish is caught. It is best that an experienced fisherman handles the cleaning, or protective gloves are used.
In Mediterranean cuisine, the greater weever is often grilled or fried, and local fishermen also add it to traditional fish stews.
👉 Curious how a simple family beach trip turned into a memorable fishing adventure? Read our story: Family Fishing at Sea – How We Caught a 2.5 kg Bonito.
Conclusion
The Greater weever may be small, but it is among the most dangerous fish in the Adriatic. Its venomous spines can cause excruciating pain and medical complications, but with quick first aid the sting is rarely life-threatening.
The most important steps are to be aware of its presence, wear water shoes, and know what to do in case of a sting. At the same time, fishermen know that this “dangerous” fish can also be a delicious dish when prepared with care.
👉 Related article: Healthy Fish from Adriatic Sea – Nutrition & Benefits
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