Fin's Fish Guide
The Slender rockfish (Scorpaena elongata) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, near rocky and gravelly bottoms of the deeper continental shelf.
Description
The slender rockfish is a red-coloured scorpionfish of the family Scorpaenidae reaching about 50 cm. The red-brown, dark-blotched body has a large, spiny head with bony ridges and small skin flaps, excellent camouflage among rocks and gravel. The dorsal, pelvic and anal fins bear venomous spines. The species lives near rocky and gravelly bottoms of the deeper continental shelf in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean. As a motionless ambush predator it waits for prey to approach and sucks it in with a sudden gulp; it eats small fish, crustaceans and squid. With its tasty flesh it is a prized ingredient for fish soup, provided the spines are removed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slender rockfish?
The Slender rockfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Red-coloured scorpionfish with a spiny head, skin flaps and venomous fin spines; a well-camouflaged ambush predator.
Where does the Slender rockfish live?
The Slender rockfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea, near rocky and gravelly bottoms of the deeper continental shelf.
How big does the Slender rockfish get?
The Slender rockfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Slender rockfish dangerous to humans?
The Slender rockfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous; a prick causes severe, burning pain. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical help for severe reactions.
Is the Slender rockfish edible?
Yes, the Slender rockfish is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Slender rockfish and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Slender rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Slender rockfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Slender rockfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.