Fin's Fish Guide
The Filament scorpionfish (Hipposcorpaena filamentosus) is a fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The filament scorpionfish is a scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) from shallow reef and rubble water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, red-brown mottled body with a spiny head, thread-like skin appendages and skin flaps, strongly camouflaged on the bottom. As a motionless ambush predator it snaps at small crustaceans and small fish. The dorsal, pelvic and anal spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Filament scorpionfish?
The Filament scorpionfish is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Filament scorpionfish live?
The Filament scorpionfish is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Filament scorpionfish get?
The Filament scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Filament scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Filament scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Filament scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Filament scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.