How big is the Leaf scorpionfish?

Leaf scorpionfish (Taenianotus triacanthus) reaches 5–10 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Leaf scorpionfish?

Leaf scorpionfish is found between 1–130 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Leaf scorpionfish?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Where can you find the Leaf scorpionfish?

Found in: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Leaf scorpionfish (Taenianotus triacanthus)

Key facts

Scientific name: Taenianotus triacanthus
Common name: Leaf scorpionfish
Category: Fish
Family: Scorpaenidae
Genus: Taenianotus
Size: 5–10 cm
Depth: 1–130 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Venomous
Habitats: reef
Behaviours: solitary, cryptic
Ocean zones: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea

Description

Taenianotus triacanthus reaches 10 cm. Extremely laterally compressed body perfectly mimicking a dead leaf drifting in the current. Variable colors depending on environment: white, yellow, orange, pink, brown, purple. Molts every 2 weeks to match surrounding colors. Sways gently in rhythm with the current to enhance the mimicry. Venomous dorsal spines like all Scorpaenidae. Indo-Pacific from 1 to 130 m.

Photo of Leaf scorpionfish

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Leaf scorpionfish?: Leaf scorpionfish (Taenianotus triacanthus) reaches 5–10 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Leaf scorpionfish?: Leaf scorpionfish is found between 1–130 m deep.
Is the Leaf scorpionfish dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Venomous.
What is the conservation status of the Leaf scorpionfish?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Leaf scorpionfish?: Found in: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Other species in the family Scorpaenidae

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 218119)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2334499)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia