The public has been requested to remain vigilant of poisonous reef fish found in the shallow sea areas of Sri Lanka.
Several reports of people being stung by the reef fish and being admitted to the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital have been reported recently.
According to Parasitology Department Senior Lecturer Dr. Janaka Ruben, the poisonous fish species has been identified as ‘Gonmaha-Stone Fish’.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. Ruben further said the stonefish is found on sandy or rubble areas of reef flats, shallow lagoons, and in small pools during low tide.
They are mostly camouflaged and sometimes covered with algae due to the slow movement of the fish, he said.
Stating that these fish come close to the shore for breeding purposes, Dr. Ruben said the fish has several spines on its back which are ingested with poison.
He warned the public to be cautious when bathing in the sea and requested that they wear slippers while bathing. (NewsWire)