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Spotted Scorpionfish

Spotted scorpionfish

Scorpaena plumieri

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Fun Facts

Spotted scorpionfish have venomous spines on their back, so it's best to avoid contact with these guys on a scuba dive!

Species Type:

Fishes

Common Name(s):

Spotted scorpionfish

Size:

On average, spotted scorpionfish grow to 7.1-14.2 inches (18.0-36.0 centimeters) in length.

Diet:

Spotted scorpionfish hide and ambush prey like other fishes and crustaceans such as shrimp and crab.

Range & Habitat:

These fish can be found throughout the western Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea, inhabiting shallow coral reef communities and rocky areas.

Details:

Spotted scorpionfish are masters of disguise, using their very textured and colorful bodies to seamlessly blend into coral reef communities. They have short faces, big eyes and a large mouth that allows them to swallow prey whole.