Fin's Fish Guide
The Grass scorpionfish (Scorpaena grandicornis) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The plumed scorpionfish is a scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has a stocky body with a large, spiny head and conspicuous, plumed skin flaps above the eyes, to which the name refers; its brown marbling provides excellent camouflage. It inhabits seagrass beds, grassy bays and channels, where it lies motionless on the bottom and moves only when disturbed. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines are venomous; the wounds are extremely painful, but not fatal. Immerse a puncture wound in hot water and seek medical help if symptoms persist.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Grass scorpionfish?
The Grass scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Plumed skin flaps above the eyes and camouflaging marbling; venomous fin spines.
Where does the Grass scorpionfish live?
The Grass scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic; seagrass beds, grassy bays and channels.
How big does the Grass scorpionfish get?
The Grass scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Grass scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Grass 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 Grass scorpionfish edible?
The Grass scorpionfish is rarely eaten.
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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 Grass scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grass scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.