Fin's Fish Guide
The Cadenat's rockfish (Scorpaena loppei) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on rocky and gravel-covered bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
Cadenat's rockfish is a small scorpionfish of the family Scorpaenidae reaching about 15 cm. The stocky, red-brown mottled body carries skin flaps on the head and stout fin spines, with which the fish blends perfectly among stones and gravel. Like other scorpionfishes it has venomous spines in the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins, a defence against predators — a sting is painful for people but rarely dangerous. The species lives on rocky and gravel-covered bottoms of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on the continental shelf. As an ambush predator it lies motionless in wait and sucks in small crustaceans and small fish in a flash. Because of its small size it has little fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cadenat's rockfish?
The Cadenat's rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a marbled pattern. Small, red-brown marbled scorpionfish with venomous fin spines and skin flaps on the head; perfectly camouflaged among stones.
Where does the Cadenat's rockfish live?
The Cadenat's rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, on rocky and gravel-covered bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Cadenat's rockfish get?
The Cadenat's rockfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Cadenat's rockfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Cadenat's rockfish is harmless to humans. Stings from the venomous fin spines are painful: immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical help if the reaction is severe.
Is the Cadenat's rockfish edible?
The Cadenat's rockfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Cadenat's rockfish 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 Cadenat's rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cadenat's rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.