Visitors can witness the world’s most venomous fish – Stonefish at the Hamad Port Visitors Centre in Umm Al-Houl

World's most poisonous fish, the Synanceia verrucosa, or Stonefish, may be seen at the Hamad Port Visitors Centre in Umm Al-Houl. This fearsome monster has venom so deadly that it can kill an adult person in less than an hour. The Stonefish has a unique combination of characteristics not found in other reef fish, making it a fascinating species to study.

Its most distinguishing characteristics are an exceptional camouflage effect that lets it blend in with its surroundings and a venomous defensive system that is extremely painful and designed to protect the fish from even the most fearsome predators. Unfortunately, if untreated, the venom may kill a human adult within an hour of being envenomated. While treatment options are limited because of the specialist nature of antivenom, it has been shown that exposing the injured region to hot water (40-45°C) will denature the Stonefish venom.

The Stonefish, like frogfish, fits into its environment with its camouflaged skin, typically taking up residence amid coral reefs. Their sedentary lifestyle causes algae to develop in their bodies, boosting their capacity to remain hidden. Stonefish are ambush predators, so they can wait for hours before their victim gets near enough to strike. Their rapid and powerful blows generate a vacuum effect, allowing them to suck in and consume their victim completely. Stonefish have the unusual capacity to survive for up to 24 hours outside the water, which adds to their list of extraordinary characteristics. The Stonefish may be seen in a display aquarium at the Hamad Port Visitors Centre, which houses an excellent variety of more than 80 fish and aquatic species. The centre is a purpose-built facility meant to highlight Qatar's maritime heritage and achievements.

Visitors to the institution may visit a maritime museum, a 4D cinema, virtual simulators, theatre presentations, a specific play area for youngsters, and marvel at the marine aquarium. Those interested in visiting can do so from Saturday to Thursday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.