Fin's Fish Guide
The Smoothhead scorpionfish (Scorpaena calcarata) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, on hard and rubble bottoms of the continental shelf.
Description
The smoothhead scorpionfish is a small, well-camouflaged bottom fish of the family Scorpaenidae (scorpionfishes) reaching about 13 cm. The stocky, brown-marbled body bears skin flaps and spiny projections that make it nearly invisible among stones and weed; with its large mouth it ambushes passing small fish, shrimp and crabs as a motionless hunter. The spines in the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins carry venom that causes a very painful, burning wound. The species lives on hard and cluttered bottoms of the continental shelf in the western Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. Because of its camouflage and venomous spines it must be handled carefully; it is not eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smoothhead scorpionfish?
The Smoothhead scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Well-camouflaged bottom fish with skin flaps, a large mouth and venomous spines in the fins; a motionless ambush predator.
Where does the Smoothhead scorpionfish live?
The Smoothhead scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, on hard and rubble bottoms of the continental shelf.
How big does the Smoothhead scorpionfish get?
The Smoothhead scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Smoothhead scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Smoothhead scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines carry venom that causes a very painful, burning wound; do not touch the fish and immerse a sting in hot (not boiling) water.
Is the Smoothhead scorpionfish edible?
The Smoothhead scorpionfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Smoothhead scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smoothhead 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 Scorpaena
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Smoothhead scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smoothhead scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.