The Greater Weever is a bottom-dwelling fish renowned for its ability to conceal itself within the sand. The body is elongated and cylindrical with colouration ranging from yellowish to greenish grey, and it features numerous oblique lines on the sides that provide excellent camouflage. Its head is broad with eyes positioned on the very top to allow visibility above the sand, while the rest of the body remains buried. The mouth has a significant upward tilt, enabling the fish to snap up overhead prey with lightning speed.

In the Mediterranean region, several species are encountered, including the Greater Weever Trachinus draco and the smaller but equally dangerous Lesser Weever Echiichthys vipera, which inhabits very shallow waters. There is also the Starry Weever Trachinus radiatus, which is distinguished by the rough skin on its head and the radial lines around its eyes.

This species lives exclusively on sandy and muddy seabeds, where it can bury its entire body, leaving only its eyes and the venomous dorsal fin exposed. It is found in shallow waters of just a few metres, where people swim down to depths exceeding 150 metres. During the summer months, the fish tend to move closer to the shore to hunt and reproduce.

An expert ambush predator, the Greater Weever, remains motionless and hidden in the sand while waiting patiently. It feeds primarily on small fish such as gobies and sand smelts, as well as small crabs and shrimp. Its attack is exceptionally fast and usually occurs during dusk or at night.

Breeding takes place during the warm months, primarily from June to August. The eggs and larvae are pelagic and are carried by marine currents for approximately three months before the young fish settle on the seabed.

Fisheries & Economic Value

It is caught mainly by professional fishermen using bottom trawls and trammel nets, but also by recreational anglers using handlines over sandy ground. Although many fear the fish due to its venom, the Greater Weever has excellent-quality meat. The flesh is white, firm, and very flavourful, making it ideal for traditional fish soups or grilling. Its commercial value is moderate, mainly due to the difficulties involved in cleaning and handling the animal safely.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the Greater Weever is classified as a species of Least Concern because its populations are healthy. Scientific studies have analysed the composition of its venom, which contains proteins such as dracotoxin that cause cell destruction and intense pain. Research in the Black Sea showed that females live longer than males, reaching up to 6 or 7 years of age. It has also been observed that at night, the fish often emerge from the sand and swim freely to hunt.

The venom of the Greater Weever is a heat-labile protein, which means it is destroyed by heat. If you are stung, the only effective solution is to submerge the affected area in very hot water at approximately 45 degrees Celsius for at least 30 to 60 minutes. This stops the pain and deactivates the toxin. You must avoid ice or cold compresses as they can worsen the condition.