Distribution

1. Oceans of the Northern Hemisphere, some species in freshwater
2. All oceans
3. Freshwater in the Northern Hemisphere
4. Tropical to temperate seas

Biology

The families listed here do not possess venomous spines in the proper sense. However, in some of the species the fin integument is covered in epidermal mucous glands. The weakly toxic secretions from these glands can lead to local effects if they enter the skin via puncture wounds from the fin rays.
Sculpins are a species-rich family whose members are similar in appearance to the Mail-cheeked fishes. Like them, most species of Sculpins are bottom-dwelling fish that live in coastal waters.
Goosefishes are bottom-dwelling fish, and as ambush predators they are seldom in motion. Their distinguishing feature is their extremely large, dorsoventrally flattened head, which accounts for about half of the body length. Up to 1.5 or 2 m in size. The dorsal fin is made up of individual, long spines, the first of which functions as a lure. This lure attracts prey, which the Goosefish then effortlessly devours with its huge mouth. Goosefishes are known as edible fish in Europe (Baudroie, Lotte de mer).

Perches live in freshwater and are popular edible fish. The largest and commercially most important species is Stizostedion lucioperca (Zander), with a length up to 1.2 m.
Seabass and Groupers are carnivorous coastal fish; some species can grow to several metres in length. Most live in shallow water and are considered fine edible fish.   

Risk

Accidents usually occur when catching or preparing these fish. Painful stings. Systemic envenoming has not been documented and is very unlikely.

Treatment

Symptomatic.

Literature (biological)

Pigulewski 1974, Brandes 1980