Fin's Fish Guide
The Bigscale scorpionfish (Scorpaena scrofa) is a brackish-water fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Eastern Atlantic from the British Isles to Senegal, including Madeira, the Canary Islands and Cape Verde; the entire Mediterranean Sea.
Description
The red scorpionfish is a stocky, red bottom fish of the family Scorpaenidae reaching about 50 cm. The body is covered with skin flaps and fringes that, together with the red marbling, give excellent camouflage among rocks and weed. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fins bear venomous spines that can inflict a very painful sting. The species is a sedentary, solitary ambush predator in the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, usually to 150 m, eating fish, crustaceans and molluscs. Despite its venomous spines the red scorpionfish is a highly prized food fish, notably a key ingredient of bouillabaisse.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bigscale scorpionfish?
The Bigscale scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a marbled pattern. Red-coloured, stocky bottom fish with skin flaps on the head and body for camouflage and venomous dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines.
Where does the Bigscale scorpionfish live?
The Bigscale scorpionfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic from the British Isles to Senegal, including Madeira, the Canary Islands and Cape Verde; the entire Mediterranean Sea.
How big does the Bigscale scorpionfish get?
The Bigscale scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Bigscale scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Bigscale scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The dorsal spines are venomous and cause a very painful sting. Immerse the wound in hot water (~45 °C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove any spine fragments, and seek medical help for severe pain, swelling or general symptoms.
Is the Bigscale scorpionfish edible?
Yes, the Bigscale scorpionfish is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Bigscale scorpionfish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scorpaena
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Bigscale scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bigscale scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.