The Tassled Scorpionfish or Scorpaenopsis oxycephala is a dangeroussaltwater fish that is found in the Indian and Pacific oceans. This carnivorous fish has venomous spines that will cause serious pain to the unsuspecting victim that may step on them. This fish are often found in shallow waters in and around reefs.
Tassled Scorpionfish is just one of the over 100 different species of Scorpionfish. This particular species grows to about 14" (36 cm) and can vary in coloration a great deal depending on it surroundings. This fish will have "tassles" or beards below their jaws, hence their name. They mainly feed on smaller fish and crustaceans. This fish will feed by opening its mouth wide and using their gills to create a suction that literally sucks the fish right into their mouths. They will lie in wait on the bottom for an unsuspecting fish to swim to close and then snatch them up with amazing speed.
If you have any additional information about the Tassled Scorpionfish please leave us a comment or watch the Tassled Scorpionfish and other amazing creatures in the video below...
I just saw one of these today in the reef on the North side of Gili Trawangan, Lombok, Indonesia.
Not only do they blend in well automatically because of the unique camouflage and tassels (which serve to break up their outline), but they can also CHANGE their coloring at will. I didn't know they could do that until I watched this one do it today (other online sources confirm it is possible, and that my wife and I didn't just imagine it).
I actually got a really nice picture of it today that I'd be happy to share, if you like.
I just saw one of these today in the reef on the North side of Gili Trawangan, Lombok, Indonesia.
ReplyDeleteNot only do they blend in well automatically because of the unique camouflage and tassels (which serve to break up their outline), but they can also CHANGE their coloring at will. I didn't know they could do that until I watched this one do it today (other online sources confirm it is possible, and that my wife and I didn't just imagine it).
I actually got a really nice picture of it today that I'd be happy to share, if you like.
That would be great, you can find our e-mail address on the bottom of this page. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteWe have added in your picture to the post Alex, thanks again and if you run into any more species out there please send them to us.
ReplyDelete