Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

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vibora
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Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

Post by vibora »

What's the most dangerous freshwater fish you've kept or heard about? I'm not talking about aggression, but actual risk to the keeper, like venomous spines or extreme size.
saltnet_9
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Re: Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

Post by saltnet_9 »

Gotta be the Electric Eel. Those things can deliver a 600-volt shock, enough to knock a person out. Had a buddy who kept one in a 300-gallon tank, said it was sketchy even with precautions.
sterna
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Re: Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

Post by sterna »

Piranhas are overhyped, but a pack of hungry Red-Bellied Piranhas can mess you up if you're not careful. Seen 'em strip a chicken carcass in minutes. Wouldn't wanna dip my hand in there.
Lynxguy
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Re: Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

Post by Lynxguy »

What about the Stonefish? Heard they're venomous as hell and look like rocks. Not sure if anyone actually keeps 'em, but dang, that's a risky pet.
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vibora
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Re: Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

Post by vibora »

Lynxguy wrote: Sat May 03, 2025 1:47 pm What about the Stonefish? Heard they're venomous as hell and look like rocks. Not sure if anyone actually keeps 'em, but dang, that's a risky pet.
Stonefish are saltwater, though. We're sticking to freshwater here. But yeah, they're nightmare fuel.
saltnet_9
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Re: Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

Post by saltnet_9 »

Freshwater Stingrays are another one. Those barbs can pierce gloves and deliver a nasty sting. Know a guy who ended up in the ER after a slip during tank maintenance.
sterna
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Re: Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

Post by sterna »

Goliath Tigerfish. Not venomous, but those teeth are like daggers. One wrong move during feeding and you're losing a finger. Plus, they need massive tanks, like 500+ gallons.
Lynxguy
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Re: Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

Post by Lynxguy »

Ever heard of the Candiru? Tiny parasitic catfish that supposedly swims up your urethra. Dunno if it's true, but the stories alone make me wanna wear armor in the Amazon.
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vibora
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Re: Most dangerous freshwater aquarium fish

Post by vibora »

Thanks for the input, everyone. Seems like Electric Eels and Stingrays are the top contenders. Gonna steer clear of those unless I'm feeling extra reckless.
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