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ALEXANDRE MEINESZ

Red Scorpionfish

In Dive.Explo360: Mediterranean · Northeast Atlantic · Atlantic Ocean

The red scorpionfish stands out for its massive head and red-orange colours. Resting on rocks, it almost disappears into its surroundings. Beware, however, of its venomous spines, which can cause particularly painful stings on contact.

Habitat de Red Scorpionfish Habitat
Coralligenous habitat, Rocky habitat, Sand, Wreck
Profondeur de Red Scorpionfish Depth
10-80 m
Groupe biologique de Red Scorpionfish Group
Benthic fish
Rôle écologique de Red Scorpionfish Role
Predator

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

The red scorpionfish is a heavy, stocky fish, generally red to orange and often mottled with lighter patches. Its head is particularly large, adorned with numerous outgrowths and skin flaps that enhance its camouflage.Its usual size is around 30 to 40 centimetres, but some individuals can reach about 50 centimetres. Its conspicuous dorsal spines are connected to venom glands and form its main means of defence.A relatively inactive fish, it often remains motionless on the seabed, perfectly concealed. This strategy allows it both to avoid predators and to surprise prey.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

The red scorpionfish mainly lives on rocky seabeds, rubble and coralligenous areas.It can be found from shallow water down to more than 200 metres, although it is more often seen in coastal areas.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

It is an ambush predator. It feeds mainly on fish and crustaceans.With a very fast strike, it sucks in prey by suddenly opening its mouth, without needing to pursue it.

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