UnderWater World staff relocate two stonefish and six lionfish, two of the world's most venomous fish. Curator of fishes, Kate Willson, carefully supervises the relocation of the lionfish. Photo: Brett Wortman / Sunshine Coast Daily

UnderWater World staff relocate two stonefish and six lionfish, two of the world's most venomous fish. Curator of fishes, Kate Willson, carefully supervises the relocation of the lionfish. Photo: Brett Wortman / Sunshine Coast Daily Brett Wortman

THE UnderWater World animal care team donned protective gear to move two of the world's most venomous fish.

The relocation yesterday morning was one of their most delicate yet, shifting two estuarine stonefish and six lionfish to a new tank, as work begins for the second stage of its $6.5 million refurbishment.

The expert team had to be extra cautious when moving the stonefish from the Weird and Wonderful zone, because being "ambush predators" by nature, if aggravated their 13 venomous spikes will strike up - in just 0.015 of a second.

The stonefish are unique creatures, often camouflaging as a rock.