Spiky-backed Lionfish are the latest hazard for Bermuda's swimmers to avoid.

The stripey-fish pack venom in their spinal fins which is extremely painful for people who get stung says Conservation Services Director Jack Ward.

"They have really long spines, basically like a hypodermic needle. The fish use them to ward off larger predators."

He says around 15 of the fish have been sighted in the last two years although no one has been hurt yet. Stings are quickly treated with hot water. Mr. Ward suspects eggs floated from a Caribbean aquarium but he is at a loss to know how to curb the newcomers.

"We don't know what the impact will be on the eco-system."

The brown and yellow fish can grow to ten inches.

The first specimen was found at Devonshire Dock and taken to the Agricultural Exhibition and promptly seized by Government who wrongly feared it had been illegally imported.