Fin's Fish Guide
The Common scorpionfish (Scorpaenodes guamensis) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Indo-Pacific, in rock crevices of reef flats, shallow lagoons and channels.
Description
The Guam scorpionfish is a small scorpionfish (family Scorpaenidae) of the Indo-Pacific. The species reaches about 14 cm and has a stocky, brown-red mottled body that camouflages it excellently among rocks and coral. It lives in rock crevices of reef flats, shallow lagoons and channels and hunts mainly at night for small shrimps, crabs and polychaetes. The fin spines bear glandular tissue and are venomous; a sting can cause a painful wound. The species is otherwise harmless to humans and of no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common scorpionfish?
The Common scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Well-camouflaged scorpionfish with venomous fin spines; hunts small invertebrates at night.
Where does the Common scorpionfish live?
The Common scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, in rock crevices of reef flats, shallow lagoons and channels.
How big does the Common scorpionfish get?
The Common scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Common scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Common scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from the venomous fin spines: immerse the affected area in hot water (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to ease pain, clean the wound, and seek medical care if symptoms are severe.
Is the Common scorpionfish edible?
The Common scorpionfish is not usually eaten.
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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 Common scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.