Fin's Fish Guide
The Chained scorpionfish (Scorpaena papillosa) is a brackish-water fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The dwarf scorpionfish is a scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) from the temperate waters of southern Australia and New Zealand. The species has a stocky, red-brown mottled body with a large, spiny head and skin flaps that provide excellent camouflage. It inhabits rocky bottoms, from shallow muddy estuaries to offshore kelp reefs, and is mainly active at night. As an ambush hunter it springs on small fishes and crustaceans. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines are venomous and give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chained scorpionfish?
The Chained scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Camouflaged nocturnal ambush predator with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Chained scorpionfish live?
The Chained scorpionfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate waters of southern Australia and New Zealand; rocky bottoms.
How big does the Chained scorpionfish get?
The Chained scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Chained scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Chained 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 Chained scorpionfish edible?
The Chained scorpionfish 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 Chained scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chained scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.