Fin's Fish Guide
The Crowned rockfish (Scorpaena stephanica) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the West African coast, near rocky and gravel bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The crowned rockfish is a red-coloured scorpionfish of the family Scorpaenidae reaching about 40 cm. The red-brown, dark-blotched body has a large, spiny head with bony ridges and small skin flaps, excellent camouflage among rocks and gravel. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fins bear venomous spines. The species lives near rocky bottoms along the West African coast. As a motionless ambush predator it waits for prey to approach and sucks it in with a sudden gulp; it eats small fish, crustaceans and squid. Because of its venomous spines it must be handled with care; the flesh itself is good to eat.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Crowned rockfish?
The Crowned rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Red-coloured scorpionfish with a large, spiny head, skin flaps and venomous fin spines; a well-camouflaged ambush predator.
Where does the Crowned rockfish live?
The Crowned rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic along the West African coast, near rocky and gravel bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Crowned rockfish get?
The Crowned rockfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Crowned rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Crowned rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous; a prick causes severe, burning pain. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical help for severe reactions.
Is the Crowned rockfish edible?
The Crowned rockfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Crowned 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 Crowned rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Crowned rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.