Fin's Fish Guide
The California scorpionfish (Scorpaena guttata) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 43 cm.
Description
The California scorpionfish is a scorpionfish of the family Scorpaenidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 43 cm and has a stocky, red-brown spotted body with a large, spiny head and skin flaps. It occurs mainly in rocky areas of bays and along the coast, especially in caves and crevices, where it shelters by day. As an ambush predator it feeds on small fishes, crustaceans and molluscs. The dorsal, head and gill-cover spines are venomous and give a severely painful puncture wound; therefore handle a caught specimen with care. The flesh is otherwise tasty.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the California scorpionfish?
The California scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Large, spiny head with skin flaps; venomous spines, but tasty flesh.
Where does the California scorpionfish live?
The California scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; rocky areas of bays and coast, caves and crevices.
How big does the California scorpionfish get?
The California scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the California scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The California scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the California scorpionfish edible?
Yes, the California scorpionfish is commonly eaten.
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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 California scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the California scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.