Fin's Fish Guide
The Red scorpionfish (Pontinus furcirhinus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 27 cm.
North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and others
Description
The red scorpionfish is a scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) from the eastern Pacific, off Central and South America. The species grows to about 27 cm and has a stocky, red body with a large, spiny head and skin flaps. The dorsal, pelvic and anal spines are linked to venom and a sting is very painful. As a bottom-bound ambush hunter it lives on sand and reef bottoms of the continental margin and engulfs passing small fish and crustaceans. Handle with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red scorpionfish?
The Red scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Red scorpionfish live?
The Red scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and others
How big does the Red scorpionfish get?
The Red scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Red scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Red 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.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Red scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pontinus
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Red scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.