Ascension : Creature Feature
Submitted by The Islander (Gavin Yon) 30.06.2005 (Article Archived on 14.07.2005)

This Week – Scorpion Fish

This Week – Scorpion Fish

What are they? 

A Scorpion Fish can grow to about 38 cm long, and disguises itself like a stone.  They are part of the scorpion fish family which includes Stonefish, Lionfish and Devilfish.  They are bottom dwellers and normally lie very still unless they are disturbed.

Where do they live?

They live in shallower water along the reef.  They are found in the sea in warm climates all over the world. Mediterranean, Eastern Atlantic from the Canary islands to Biscay, Australia and most of the Indian and Pacific waters.. Can also be found on rare occasions as far north as the English Channel.

What can they do?

They use their disguise as protection from predators but they also have some spines on their back, or dorsal fin,  that end in sacks of poison that squirt along the spines if pressure is put on them, like if they get stood upon.  This poison is said to be very painful and Stone Fish poison can kill a man within two hours.  They can change their colours to adapt to the environment they are in.

What do they eat?

They eat at night and feed upon small fish and crustaceans.

Where can I learn more?

The internet, The Learning and Resource Centre and the Conservation Centre all have information.

Fact file –