Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic thornyhead (Trachyscorpia cristulata) is a saltwater fish of the family Sebastidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Northeast Atlantic and the western Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and rocky bottoms of the continental slope.
Description
The Atlantic thornyhead is a deep-water scorpionfish of the family Sebastidae reaching about 50 cm. The stout, reddish body is mottled and covered with skin flaps, and the head is heavily spined; venomous spines stand in the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins. The reddish colour disappears at depth, so the fish blends perfectly among rocks and on the bottom. The species lives on sand and rock bottoms of the continental slope of the north-eastern Atlantic and the western Mediterranean, usually between one hundred and over a thousand metres. As an ambush hunter it lies motionless and seizes fish, crustaceans and squid. The venomous spines can give painful wounds, so caution is needed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic thornyhead?
The Atlantic thornyhead has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Deep-water scorpionfish with a heavily spined head and venomous fin spines; reddish in colour, a master of camouflage on the bottom.
Where does the Atlantic thornyhead live?
The Atlantic thornyhead lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Northeast Atlantic and the western Mediterranean Sea, on sandy and rocky bottoms of the continental slope.
How big does the Atlantic thornyhead get?
The Atlantic thornyhead grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Atlantic thornyhead dangerous to humans?
The Atlantic thornyhead is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The spines in the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins and on the head are venomous and give a very painful wound. Immerse the stung part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 40-45 °C) to break down the venom and seek medical help if symptoms are severe.
Is the Atlantic thornyhead edible?
The Atlantic thornyhead is rarely eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
More from the family Sebastidae
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