Fin's Fish Guide
The Blotchfin scorpionfish (Scorpaenodes varipinnis) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Comoros, French Polynesia, Djibouti and others
Description
The Blotchfin scorpionfish is a scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) from reef and rocky water of the Indo-West Pacific. It has a stocky, red-brown mottled body with a large, spiny head and skin flaps that make it almost invisible among coral, stone and weed. As a motionless ambush predator it waits until prey comes within range and engulfs small fish and crustaceans with a sudden, rapid gulp. The dorsal, pelvic and anal spines are venomous and can give a very painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blotchfin scorpionfish?
The Blotchfin scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Blotchfin scorpionfish live?
The Blotchfin scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Comoros, French Polynesia, Djibouti and others
How big does the Blotchfin scorpionfish get?
The Blotchfin scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Blotchfin scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Blotchfin scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scorpaenodes
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Blotchfin scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blotchfin scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.