Fin's Fish Guide
The Coral scorpionfish (Sebastapistes cyanostigma) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The bluespotted scorpionfish is a small scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a stocky, red-brown body with fine bluish spots and skin appendages. It lives hidden among the branches of Pocillopora corals on coral-rich reef crests, where it lies almost invisibly in wait. As an ambush hunter it springs on small crustaceans and small fishes. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines are venomous and give a painful puncture wound; treat a sting with hot water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Coral scorpionfish?
The Coral scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Lives hidden among Pocillopora coral branches; camouflaged ambush predator with venomous fin spines.
Where does the Coral scorpionfish live?
The Coral scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coral-rich reef crests with Pocillopora.
How big does the Coral scorpionfish get?
The Coral scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Coral scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Coral 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 Coral scorpionfish edible?
The Coral scorpionfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sebastapistes
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Coral scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Coral scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.