Pterois volitans (Linnaeus, 1758) is one of the most appreciated fish in the common reef aquariology but, unfortunately, a potentially dangerous subject due to its venom glands, which can cause injuries and envenomations. This study relays on the recording of injuries in Italian hobbyists/caretakers/retailers, enabling us to evaluate the most dangerous steps during the management of the fish. By recording P. volitans behavior both in aquarium and in the wild, the authors postulate that prevention of injuries in aquariology must start from the knowledge of territorial and feeding behavior of this species, and stress the revision of Italian law in order to make sellers much more responsible about P. volitans management and welfare, as necessary protective measures for sellers, public and buyers.
Reef aquariology: a hobby for everyone? How an adequate knowledge of Pterois volitans behavior and welfare can avoid risks and accidents
LUCIDI, Pia
2010-01-01
Abstract
Pterois volitans (Linnaeus, 1758) is one of the most appreciated fish in the common reef aquariology but, unfortunately, a potentially dangerous subject due to its venom glands, which can cause injuries and envenomations. This study relays on the recording of injuries in Italian hobbyists/caretakers/retailers, enabling us to evaluate the most dangerous steps during the management of the fish. By recording P. volitans behavior both in aquarium and in the wild, the authors postulate that prevention of injuries in aquariology must start from the knowledge of territorial and feeding behavior of this species, and stress the revision of Italian law in order to make sellers much more responsible about P. volitans management and welfare, as necessary protective measures for sellers, public and buyers.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
