Fin's Fish Guide
The Darkspotted scorpionfish (Sebastapistes tinkhami) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Christmas I., French Polynesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., New Caledonia and others
Description
The darkspotted scorpionfish is a small scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, red-brown mottled body with dark spots and skin flaps, with which it camouflages among coral and stone. The dorsal, pelvic and anal spines are linked to venom and a sting is painful. As an ambush hunter it lives hidden in coral heads and snaps small crustaceans and small fish. Handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Darkspotted scorpionfish?
The Darkspotted scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Darkspotted scorpionfish live?
The Darkspotted scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Christmas I., French Polynesia, Japan, Ryukyu Is., New Caledonia and others
How big does the Darkspotted scorpionfish get?
The Darkspotted scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Darkspotted scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Darkspotted scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not touch or pick up; the fin spines carry venom. For a sting: immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C, not scalding) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom. For severe pain, swelling or breathing difficulty seek medical help and check tetanus status.
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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 Darkspotted scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Darkspotted scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.