Information on the Bearded Scorpion Fish

Bearded scorpionfish are in the family Scorpaenidae, where several varieties of scorpionfish or rockfish are also found. Known as Scorpaenopsis barbata, these particular deep-sea creatures are named for the venomous, sharp spines that can wound prey, potential attackers and soft-skinned creatures who get too close.

  1. Native Habitat

    • The bearded scorpionfish can thrive in nearly all tropical and warm seas. They are most commonly found in the Western Indian Ocean along the east coast of Africa, from the Red Sea to as far south as the coast of Somalia, and near the island nations of Fiji and the Maldives. Like most species of this family, bearded scorpionfish live on or near the bottom of the sea where they can feed on small crustaceans or other fishes. These so-called "bottom-dwelling" fish have been found at depths of 30 meters below the surface and may live at even greater depths.

    Appearance

    • The bearded scorpionfish is a colorful, gnarly creature that has evolved to lie camouflaged on the ocean floor. Ridges, warts, humps, skirts and spines cover the fish's body. One typically measures about 22 cm in length, and it has one notched dorsal fin. Much of its body is dark brown or reddish in color, featuring white and black blotches. Visible venom glands appear on the dorsal, anal and pelvic spine. This fish gets its name from the system of gills that hang below the mouth like a beard.

    Behavior

    • The family Scorpaenidae contains the world's most dangerous, venomous fishes. Although not aggressive by nature, these discreet, bottom-dwelling creatures will erect their venomous dorsal spines when provoked, generally scaring off whatever creature has set them off.

    Feeding

    • The bearded scorpionfish is an ambush hunter. It lays quietly and still on the sea floor, blending in with its surroundings, waiting for a small fish or crustacean to get close. With a minimum of movement, the scorpionfish opens its mouth and creates a suction, trapping and swallowing its prey in a split second.