Specieswatch: why the spiky lesser weaver fish is heading north

Climate change has led to the venomous Echiichthys vipera reaching as far as northern ScotlandWarning notices for the lesser weever fish, Echiichthys vipera, are few on UK beaches but should be more prominent. Weevers are yellow for disguise and lurk just below the sand surface. Although only 10cm long, they can, if stepped on, or anglers handle them carelessly, deliver a severe sting from spines on their backs.The weever fish is often mistakenly referred to as the "weaver fish". The spelling weever comes from the Old French word wivre, which means snake or viper - and with good reason: the sting can be very painful and the spines need extracting. The best treatment is to put the sting in the warmest water you can stand because it breaks down the proteins in the venom and stops the pain. Continue reading...