Black Scorpionfish
Scorpaena porcus
Scorpionfish
scorpionfishes
About
Scorpionfish are camouflaged, venomous fish that sit still on the reef. In this app the group includes the Leaf scorpionfish, Devil scorpionfish, and Dwarf lionfish.
How to tell it apart
Scorpionfish are known for the sharp spines on their fins, which in many species carry venom in a coating of mucus. Members of the group differ mainly in size and in how rough or leaf-like their skin looks.
Appearance
Scorpionfish have a flattened body and a head covered in ridges and spines. They have one main fin along the back and large fan-like side fins. Most species are small, often under 5 centimetres, though the largest kinds can reach over a metre.
Habitat
Scorpionfish live mainly in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, with some species also in the Atlantic. They live on reefs, but also in estuaries, bays, and lagoons, in both salt and brackish water.
Behaviour
Scorpionfish rely on their venomous spines for defence rather than speed. Divers should avoid touching them, since the spines can deliver a painful sting.
Breeding
Most scorpionfish fertilise their eggs internally. Some species give birth to live young, while others lay their eggs in a soft, jelly-like mass.
Log it in Into the Blue
Describe what you saw and we name it, then keep every species you find in your Oceandex.
