Spotted Scorpionfish

Description

Coloration of this species is variable, ranging from shades of brown or black on a paler background with the area before the caudal fin appearing abruptly paler. The head is mottled with dark markings while the ventral surface is often orangish or reddish in color. The fins have bands or dark blotches on a pale background often with patches of green. The caudal fin has dark bars at the base, middle and near the end. The inside of the pectoral fins have large white spots or blotches on a black background. The pectoral fins are extended to display bright white spots when the fish is disturbed. Anterolateral glandular groove with venom gland. Max length is 45 cm, common length is 30 cm. Max published weight is 1,6 kg.

The spotted scorpionfish is a spiny-headed robust scorpionfish with a dorsal fin having 12 spines and 9 ½ soft rays (last split to base and counted as 1 ½) and the pectoral fin with 18-21 fin rays. Venom glands are associated with the dorsal fin spines for protection from predators. The suborbital ridge is formed by the infraorbital bones 2 and 3 with usually one to two spines respectively. There are fleshy plumes referred to as cirri over the eyes along with skin flaps around the chin and head. The occipital pit is well developed. The pectoral fins have broad bases and are fan-like in shape; the dorsal fin is continuous and deeply notched; and the caudal fin is truncate. The mouth is terminal with the maxilla reaching past the eye.

Distribution

Western Atlantic: Bermuda, Massachusetts, and northern Gulf of Mexico to southern Brazil. Eastern Atlantic: Ascension and St. Helena.

Habitat

It is found mostly in shallow coral reef and rocky areas. It lies motionless on the bottom below about 5 m depth to at least 55 m. It feeds mostly on other fishes and crustaceans. Spines on back coated with a venomous mucus. If accidentally step on this well camouflaged fish, spines may be highly toxic.