Located between the Italian Peninsula and the Balkan Peninsula, the Adriatic Sea is a semi-enclosed sea that forms part of the Mediterranean Sea. This body of water is known for its rich biodiversity and unique marine ecosystem, supporting a wide range of marine species. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of marine life in the Adriatic Sea.
Species Found in the Adriatic Sea
Fish: Over 430 species of fish are found in the Adriatic Sea, including the European anchovy, sea bass, gilhead sea bream, mackerel, , sardines, mullet and many other species. Large predatory fish like bluefin tuna, swordfish, and sharks (such as the great white shark) are also present.
Cephalopods: The Adriatic is home to various cephalopods like common octopus, European squid, and cuttlefish. These intelligent and adaptable creatures play a crucial role in the sea’s food chain.
Marine Mammals: Several species of dolphins, such as the bottlenose dolphin and the striped dolphin, inhabit the Adriatic. The sperm whale and the common fin whale can also be spotted occasionally.
Invertebrates: The Adriatic’s waters are inhabited by a diverse array of invertebrates, including sea cucumbers, starfish, jellyfish, sea urchins, and corals. The endangered noble pen shell is one of the larger mollusk species found in the region.
Algae: The Adriatic Sea is characterized by a rich variety of algae species, with over 1,000 different types identified. These algae provide habitat and food for many other marine organisms.
Till next time …
…tight lines and wet landing nets!
If you would like to use content from the Fishing Religion website (in whole or in part), please add a link to the contribution on our site in your post.
Disclosure
Some of the links in this blog and in our videos may be affiliate links, and pay us a small commission if you use them. We really appreciate the support. Thank you for your support.
This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated. As an eBay I may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Geographical Range: The greater weever is found in the eastern North Atlantic, with a range extending from Norway and Iceland down to the Mediterranean Sea and along the coasts of North Africa.
Habitat: They prefer shallow coastal waters, typically inhabiting sandy or muddy substrates at depths of 10 to 100 meters.
Physical Characteristics
Size: They can grow up to 40 cm in length.
Body Shape: The body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a pointed head.
Coloration: The coloration varies but is generally a pale yellowish or brownish with darker spots that help with camouflage against the seabed.
Venomous Spines: The first dorsal fin has venomous spines that can deliver painful stings, which serve as a defense mechanism against predators.
Diet and Feeding
Diet: Greater weever are carnivorous, primarily feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.
Feeding Behavior: They are ambush predators, often burying themselves in the sand to surprise prey that swims by.
Reproduction
Spawning: They typically spawn in warmer months, with eggs being released into the water column where they develop into larvae.
Ecological Role
Predator and Prey: As both predator and prey, they play a significant role in the marine food web. They help control populations of smaller fish and invertebrates.
Human Interaction
Fishing: While not a primary target for commercial fisheries, they are sometimes caught as bycatch. Their venomous spines can pose a risk to fishermen and beachgoers.
Venom Characteristics
Location of Venom: The venom is produced in specialized glands located at the base of the venomous spines on the first dorsal fin. These spines are sharp and can easily penetrate skin.
Venom Composition: The venom contains a complex mixture of proteins, enzymes, and peptides. Key components include:
Neurotoxins: These can affect nerve function and lead to pain and discomfort.
Hemotoxins: These may damage blood vessels and tissues, contributing to swelling and inflammation.
Enzymatic Components: These can break down cellular structures, leading to increased pain and tissue damage.
Effects on Humans
Sting Mechanism: The venom is injected through the spines when a person steps on or handles the fish, which often occurs accidentally as the fish is camouflaged against the seabed.
Immediate Symptoms:
Intense Localized Pain: Pain is often described as sharp and burning, occurring almost immediately after the sting.
Swelling and Redness: The area around the sting site typically becomes swollen and red due to the inflammatory response.
Systemic Reactions: In some cases, individuals may experience nausea, vomiting, or even dizziness.
Severe Reactions: Rarely, individuals may experience anaphylaxis or other severe allergic reactions, which require immediate medical attention.
First Aid and Treatment
The poison is thermolabile, which means that it is only destroyed by temperatures above 50°C. The stung area is immersed in hot water as long as the stung person can stand it or burned with a lighter, in short, the temperature reduces the effect of the poison. The strength of the poison does not depend on the size of the fish and does not subside by itself.
Seek Medical Attention: If symptoms persist or worsen, or if there are signs of an allergic reaction (such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face), it’s crucial to seek medical help promptly.
Ecological Role of Venom
Defense Mechanism: The venom serves primarily as a defense mechanism against predators, allowing the greater weever fish to deter potential threats effectively. It also plays a role in their predatory behavior, helping them secure prey.
Till next time …
…tight lines and wet landing nets!
If you would like to use content from the Fishing Religion website (in whole or in part), please add a link to the contribution on our site in your post.
Disclosure
Some of the links in this blog and in our videos may be affiliate links, and pay us a small commission if you use them. We really appreciate the support. Thank you for your support.
This site contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated. As an eBayI may be compensated if you make a purchase.
