Fin's Fish Guide
The Billy bougain (Scorpaena cardinalis) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 41 cm.
Description
The eastern red scorpionfish is a scorpionfish from the southwest Pacific, off Australia and New Zealand. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a stocky, reddish to mottled body with a knobbly head and skin flaps. In the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins it bears strong, venom-linked spines that deliver an intense, painful sting. As an ambush hunter it rests camouflaged on rocky reefs to about 150 metres and snaps at crustaceans and small fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Billy bougain?
The Billy bougain has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a marbled pattern. Venomous fin spines and a knobbly head; camouflaged reef ambush predator
Where does the Billy bougain live?
The Billy bougain lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Southwest Pacific
How big does the Billy bougain get?
The Billy bougain grows to a maximum of about 41 cm.
Is the Billy bougain dangerous to humans?
The Billy bougain is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by the spines: immerse the affected part in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove visible spine fragments, and seek medical help for severe pain or swelling.
Is the Billy bougain edible?
The Billy bougain is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 Billy bougain?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Billy bougain is one of 12,519 species in the app.