Fin's Fish Guide
The Black scorpionfish (Scorpaena porcus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 41 cm.
Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, on shallow rocky and seagrass bottoms.
Description
The black scorpionfish is a stout rock fish of the family Scorpaenidae reaching about 40 cm. The brown to almost black mottled body is covered with skin flaps and bears a pair of long tentacles above the eyes, letting the fish blend perfectly among rocks and weeds. Venomous spines stand in the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins. The species lives on shallow rock and seagrass bottoms of the eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. As an ambush hunter it lies motionless on the bottom and seizes passing fish, crustaceans and molluscs with a fast snap. Despite the venomous spines it is a valued food fish, famous as an ingredient of southern European fish soup.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black scorpionfish?
The Black scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Stocky rockfish with skin flaps, a pair of long tentacles above the eyes and venomous spines in the fins; a master of camouflage.
Where does the Black scorpionfish live?
The Black scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, on shallow rocky and seagrass bottoms.
How big does the Black scorpionfish get?
The Black scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 41 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Black scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Black scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines 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 Black scorpionfish edible?
Yes, the Black scorpionfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Black 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 Black scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.