Fin's Fish Guide
The Devil scorpionfish (Scorpaenopsis diabolus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The devil scorpionfish is a scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a stocky, lumpy body with a humped back, superbly camouflaged as an algae-covered stone on rubble and coralline-rock bottoms. When disturbed it suddenly spreads its pectoral fins and shows the bright-yellow and black underside as a warning. As a motionless ambush hunter it sucks in passing prey. The dorsal fin spines are highly venomous; a sting is extremely painful.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Devil scorpionfish?
The Devil scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Camouflaged as a stone; when disturbed it shows a bright yellow warning colour, highly venomous dorsal spines.
Where does the Devil scorpionfish live?
The Devil scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; rubble and rocky bottoms of reef flats.
How big does the Devil scorpionfish get?
The Devil scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Devil scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Devil scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by a fin spine: immerse the affected part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 degrees C) to break down the venom, and seek medical care for severe or persistent symptoms.
Is the Devil scorpionfish edible?
The Devil 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 Scorpaenopsis
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Devil scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Devil scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.