Date Posted: 2025-01-18 13:00:35 | Video Duration: 00:13:40
The Australian wilderness is home to some of the most venomous creatures on the planet, and today, two adventurers are on a mission to test the sting of one of its most notorious inhabitants: the bullrout, also known as the freshwater stonefish. It’s a creature said to deliver one of the most painful stings imaginable, making this journey both thrilling and nerve-wracking.
Mark, the host, has ventured back to Australia, teaming up with his friend Miller Wilson to track down this elusive and dangerous fish. With prior experience of being stung by the saltwater stonefish, Mark knows the potential agony that awaits. “I’ve been stung by the saltwater stonefish, and it’s something I would honestly never attempt again,” he admits. The bullrout’s reputation for inflicting severe pain is well-documented, with Miller recounting how even his granddad, a police officer, ended up hospitalized after encountering one.
The Hunt for the Bullrout
The duo sets out on a trek through the Australian wilderness, aware of the dangers that lurk beyond just the bullrout. “Lots of venomous snakes around this area,” Miller warns, reminding the team to be cautious as they navigate the forest filled with potential hazards, including leeches.
As they approach the creek, where the bullrout is known to reside, they discuss its habitat. These fish often hide in shallow sections of water after being washed down from deeper pools during floods. Their ability to blend seamlessly into their surroundings makes them particularly hard to spot. “We would’ve walked past a few of these fish already,” Miller notes, highlighting their impressive camouflage.
Encountering the Stonefish
The team finally locates a bullrout hidden among the leaves and stones. Its appearance is so deceptive that it resembles a leaf, a clever defense mechanism. Miller explains how the bullrout’s spines can pivot towards potential threats, making it a formidable predator. “If you step near one, you’re stepping on it,” he warns.
With determination and careful handling, Mark and Miller manage to capture the bullrout in a clear container. The fish’s unique ability to change color is discussed, as it adapts to different environments to avoid predators. However, its most fearsome trait is its venomous barbs that line its dorsal fin, tail, and pelvic fins.
The Sting Experiment
As Mark prepares for the sting experiment, he dons gloves for protection until the moment of truth. Describing the bullrout as “one of the most unusual stinging fish I have ever seen,” he steels himself for what is to come. The sting is expected to be extraordinarily painful, potentially rivaling his previous encounter with the saltwater stonefish.
Once the fish is ready, Mark removes his glove and braces for impact. “Immediate fire spreading up my fingers,” he exclaims, as the venom takes hold. The pain is sharp and intense, with a burning sensation spreading rapidly. Despite the agony, Mark perseveres, determined to document the experience for educational purposes.
Aftermath and Analysis
Following the sting, Mark discusses the aftermath. Although the pain is severe, it does not result in lasting nerve damage as his previous encounter did. A hot water compress helps to alleviate the burning sensation, highlighting the importance of proper first aid in such situations.
The bullrout is rated on the Brave Wilderness Sting Index, scoring high in intimidation and pain, but lower in aftermath due to the lack of long-term effects. Mark concludes that the freshwater stonefish is a formidable creature, earning a 7.5 out of 10 on the index, just below the infamous assassin bug of Borneo.
This journey into the Australian wilderness underscores the incredible resilience and danger of its native wildlife, as well as the importance of respecting and understanding these remarkable creatures.