Fin's Fish Guide
The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish (Caracanthus maculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The spotted coral croucher is a very small reef fish of the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the East Indies to the Line and Austral Islands and northern Japan. It grows to only about 5 cm and has a small, deep, laterally compressed body that is light brown to grey with numerous small reddish-brown spots. It lives hidden among the branches of Pocillopora and Acropora corals on shallow, surge-swept reef crests. Unlike many related scorpionfishes this species has no venom in its fin spines and is regarded as harmless. The fish feeds on small crustaceans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish?
The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Lives among coral branches; no venom in the fin spines (unlike many scorpionfishes)
Where does the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish live?
The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish get?
The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish edible?
The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Caracanthus
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.