World’s most venomous spider and most poisonous fish arrive at Blue Planet Aquarium in Cheshire Oaks

Mar 22 2010 by Gary Porter, Chester Chronicle

THE world’s most venomous spider and most poisonous fish have arrived at the Blue Planet Aquarium in Cheshire Oaks.

The six-eyed sand spider has the most potent toxin of any living thing, according to scientists.

While the stonefish, which is camouflaged as a rock, has 13 toxic spines on its back.

Blue Planet’s Paul Renolds said: “As far as we know this will be a first for the UK. To have the world’s deadliest fish and most venomous land animal together in one exhibition is quite a feat.

“Our zoological team have taken special precautions to ensure the creatures are contained inside secure displays but visitors will still be able to come within centimetres of the planet’s most dangerous creatures.”

The poison from the sand spider, which is known as a cryotoxin, is believed to work in a similar way to sulphuric acid - completely destroying cells and tissue.

A sting off a stonefish causes excruciating pain and may result in death if not treated.

The two creatures are the stars of Venom! This is the aquarium’s new exhibition and opens on Saturday, March 27.