Alona Beach, Spiny Devil Fish,
The Spiny Devilfish (Inimicus didactylus) is also commonly referred to as the Devil Stinger or the Bearded Ghoul. This species belongs to the ‘stonefishes’ family Synanceiidae which are characterised by their venomous dorsal fin spines that cause exceptional pain if touched. This species is known to occur within the Indo-Western Pacific region and can be found from Thailand/Vietnam to Vanuatu, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south-eastern China. The body colour of this species is highly variable from dull grey to brown and the key identifying feature are the patterns on the inner face of the pectoral fins which are brightly coloured (usually yellow or orange). It has modified pectoral rays which are free from the fin that the fish uses to walk with.
This species is known to live on sandy or silty substrates of shallow lagoons and embayments. It will often bury itself in the substrate and is a master of camouflage with divers swimming over the top without even realising it is there. It is known to feed on crustaceans and small fish species. This species can cause incredible pain if touched and can even be fatal. The Spiny Devilfish (Inimicus didactylus) grows to a maximum length of approximately 25cm.
