WHATSTHATFISH
Bony fish

Decoy Scorpionfish

Iracundus signifer

Also known as: Devilfish, Red Decoy Scorpionfish, Stingfish

LCLeast ConcernIUCN Red List, 2016
VenomousKeep your distance
Adult
@hasah · Reeflex Divers, Indonesia · September 20161 / 1
01

Overview

Found singly, under ledges, and on rubble and sandy areas, of seaward reefs. The dorsal fin mimics a tiny fish, to act as a lure.

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.

02

How to identify

Pattern
blotches

Tap any trait to see other fish that share it.

03

Habitat & where to find it

  • Range · Western Indian Ocean
  • Country only · 1
LIVES IN

Found singly, under ledges, and on rubble and sandy areas, of seaward reefs.

04

Adult photos 1

05

Discussion

Comments are checked by a moderator before they appear.

No comments yet. Seen one, or got a question about it? Start the discussion.

    ALL STAGES
    FOR THE MARINE-BIOLOGY CURIOUS

    Deep dive

    Taxonomy

    1. kingdomAnimalia
    2. phylumChordata
    3. classTeleostei
    4. orderPerciformes
    5. familyScorpaenidae
    6. genusIracundus
    7. speciesIracundus signifer Jordan & Evermann, 1903

    SourcesWoRMSFishBase

    06

    More in the family

    Rockfishes (Scorpaenidae)