How big is the Pacific scorpionfish?

Pacific scorpionfish (Scorpaena mystes) reaches 25–50 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Pacific scorpionfish?

Pacific scorpionfish is found between 2–60 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Pacific scorpionfish?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Where can you find the Pacific scorpionfish?

Found in: Caribbean, Eastern Pacific.

Pacific scorpionfish (Scorpaena mystes)

Key facts

Scientific name: Scorpaena mystes
Common name: Pacific scorpionfish
Category: Fish
Family: Scorpaenidae
Genus: Scorpaena
Size: 25–50 cm
Depth: 2–60 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Venomous
Habitats: rocky-reef
Behaviours: benthic, nocturnal
Ocean zones: Caribbean, Eastern Pacific

Description

Scorpaena mystes reaches 50 cm. Large scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) East Pacific from Gulf of California to Peru with stocky red-brown to olive-brown marbled body, numerous filiform skin appendages on head and flanks for camouflage, large head, venomous dorsal spines. Lives from 2 to 60 m on rocky and coral reefs. Nocturnal ambush predator of small fish and crustaceans. Dive photo subject for Scorpaenidae enthusiasts, often spotted by silhouette.

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Pacific scorpionfish?: Pacific scorpionfish (Scorpaena mystes) reaches 25–50 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Pacific scorpionfish?: Pacific scorpionfish is found between 2–60 m deep.
Is the Pacific scorpionfish dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Venomous.
What is the conservation status of the Pacific scorpionfish?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Pacific scorpionfish?: Found in: Caribbean, Eastern Pacific.

Other species in the genus Scorpaena

Other species in the family Scorpaenidae

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 274726)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2334583)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia