Fisherman seriously injured in scissor fish attack in Khanh Hoa

The sudden attack by a needlefish on fisherman Dang Van Tang in the Truong Sa sea area on June 24, 2025, has raised concerns about the safety of seafarers operating at sea. This article analyzes the cause, the victim’s health condition, emergency procedures, as well as the injury symptoms caused by needlefish, while drawing valuable lessons on ensuring safety for fishermen in future fishing trips.

I. Cause and Impact of the Needlefish Attack in Truong Sa

The needlefish attack occurred on June 24, 2025, when fisherman Dang Van Tang, 29 years old, was diving to catch seafood in the Truong Sa sea area. The cause of the attack is attributed to the needlefish, a long-bodied fish with a sharp lower jaw resembling a sword tip, which suddenly lunged at the victim’s left neck.
This incident not only caused serious injuries to the fisherman but also served as a warning to other seafarers operating in the Khanh Hoa sea area about the potential dangers of needlefish in tropical waters.

II. Health Condition of Fisherman Dang Van Tang after the Attack

After the incident, Mr. Dang Van Tang was immediately taken to the infirmary on Sinh Ton Dong Island. There, he was conscious but had a large laceration on the left side of his neck with a hard foreign object embedded in the wound. Pain in the neck and left chest caused worry among relatives and fellow crew members.

III. Emergency Procedure at Sinh Ton Dong Island Infirmary

The doctors at the infirmary on Sinh Ton Dong Island provided immediate emergency care. They made a wide incision, removed damaged tissue, and extracted the foreign object. After treatment, the patient received wound suturing, fluid infusion, antibiotic injections, as well as tetanus serum and painkillers to help him recover quickly.

IV. Analysis of Injury Signs and Symptoms Caused by Needlefish

Needlefish injuries can be very serious. The victim may experience:

• Deep laceration at the injury site
• Severe pain in the neck and chest area
• Protruding foreign objects posing further health risks
• Potential shock and blood loss if not treated promptly.

V. Lessons from the Incident: Safety for Fishermen in Future Trips

Mr. Dang Van Tang’s incident is an important lesson for fishermen operating at sea. Equipping knowledge about needlefish and preventive measures is essential. Fishermen should use safety gear such as masks and protective equipment and avoid fishing during periods when needlefish may be more aggressive.

VI. Biological Characteristics and Behavior of Needlefish in Tropical Waters

Needlefish typically inhabit tropical seas, can move rapidly, and attack victims suddenly. They mainly appear near coral reefs and often attack when provoked, especially at night when there is light penetrating the water.

VII. Importance of Monitoring Habitat and Protecting Fishermen

Protecting fishermen in marine environments is not only the responsibility of the crew but also requires intervention and supervision from authorities. Changing habitat conditions or adjusting fishing activities appropriately can help reduce risks from species like needlefish.
Additionally, awareness campaigns and training on emergency response skills are crucial for safeguarding fishermen’s health and lives in the future.