Leaf Scorpionfish (Taenianotus triacanthus)

Also known as Leaf Fish, Paperfish, Paper Scorpionfish, Sailfin Leaf Fish, Sailfin Leaf Scorpionfish, Swayfish, Threespine Scorpionfish, Three-spined Scorpionfish

Description

Also known as Leaf Fish, Paperfish, Paper Scorpionfish, Sailfin Leaf Fish, Sailfin Leaf Scorpionfish, Swayfish, Threespine Scorpionfish, Three-spined Scorpionfish.

Found singly or in pairs, blending in with their surroundings, swaying in the current amongst algae and seagrass beds, over current swept areas of channels, reef flats, and slopes, of lagoon reefs. Recognised by the compressed body and sailfin resembling a dead leaf.
They feed on crustaceans and small fish.
Length - 10cm
Depth - 5-130m
Widespread Indo-Pacific

Scorpionfish are masters of camouflage, enabling them to lie in wait for their victims to come close, before lunging forward and inhaling their prey with their large mouths.
When disturbed they raise the spines along their backs and will usually move off out of harms way, however, if cornered they are able to charge at considerable speed.
Highly dangerous and poisonous with venomous spines along its back if trodden on etc. Ref: https://www.fishbase.se/summary/5824

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