Fin's Fish Guide
The Spinycheek scorpionfish (Neomerinthe hemingwayi) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The spinycheek scorpionfish is a bottom fish of the scorpionfish family (Scorpaenidae) from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a stocky, red-brown body with a large, spiny head and good camouflage. It lives on the continental shelf and upper slope and, as an ambush predator, lies almost motionless on the bottom waiting for small fishes and crustaceans. On the posterior margin of the fin spines is a thick glandular tissue believed to be venomous; a prick causes severe, burning pain. Therefore handle a caught specimen with great care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spinycheek scorpionfish?
The Spinycheek scorpionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a marbled pattern. Camouflaged ambush predator with venomous glandular tissue on the fin spines.
Where does the Spinycheek scorpionfish live?
The Spinycheek scorpionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic; continental shelf and upper slope.
How big does the Spinycheek scorpionfish get?
The Spinycheek scorpionfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Spinycheek scorpionfish dangerous to humans?
The Spinycheek scorpionfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and 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 care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Spinycheek scorpionfish edible?
The Spinycheek scorpionfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Neomerinthe
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Spinycheek scorpionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spinycheek scorpionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.