Bearded Scorpionfish Essay

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Scorpionfish – scorpion fish Introduction: Scorpionfish are marine fish that belong to the family scorpaenidae that includes many of the world's most venomous species. The family has several genus and more than 200 identified species. As the name tells, scorpionfish have a type of "sting" in the form of sharp spines coated with venomous mucus. The Bearded Scorpionfish (Scorpaenopsis barbata) is most likely the species shown here. Distribution and habitats: Scorpion fish are found in the Western Indian Ocean: Red Sea to at least the coast of Somalia. They live along sandy beaches, rocky coastlines and coral reefs and in shallow waters. Description: Bearded scorpionfishes, Scorpaenopsis barbata, is dull in color and is characterized by its heavily pigmented dark brown or reddish brown color, mottled with whitish and blackish blotches. Its name refers to the fleshy outgrowth of skin protruding from its chin. They have a wide mouth and broad spiny head and venom glands that may occur at the base of fin spines which can produce deep and painful wounds. The feathery fins which cover the scorpion fish body help in the camouflaging of the animals into the surrounding coral. Also, the coral- like frilly, fleshy flaps of skin protruding from its chin add …show more content…

They rest during the daylight in crevices in the corals and from their position they suddenly leap at their un-suspecting prey which could be small fish and crustaceans. The species may also create suction by rapidly opening the mouth to draw the prey in. Scorpion fish are able to stun their prey using their venom. The opportunistic hunting performed by scorpionfish is supported by their camouflage to get close to prey unnoticed before striking rapidly. Also, the big mouth of the species allows –when wide open- to engulf its meal in a big gulp. On the other hand, the scorpion fish has very few natural

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