Papuan Scorpionfish
Scorpaenopsis papuensis
Also known as: Devilfish, Papuan Devilfish, Papuan Goblinfish, Papua Scorpionfish, Stingfish
- Devilfish
- Papuan Devilfish
- Papuan Goblinfish
- Papua Scorpionfish
- Stingfish
Showing details for the adult stage. Switch stages to see how it differs.
Overview
Found singly and well camouflaged, over coral and rocky areas of coastal slopes, estuaries and lagoons, rich in algae growth.
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.
How to identify
- Pattern
- blotches
- Behaviour
- ambush predatorcamouflagedsolitary
Tap any trait to see other fish that share it.
Habitat & where to find it
Where the adult stage lives, and where its photos were taken.
- Range · Pacific Ocean
- Country only · 11
Found singly and well camouflaged, over coral and rocky areas of coastal slopes, estuaries and lagoons, rich in algae growth.
Adult photos 11
Discussion
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Deep dive
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