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Scorpionfish
(Scorpaena guttata)
Courtesy
of Tom Haight
(Spotted Scorpionfish)
(California Scorpionfish)
Beware
of the spines on this fish; they can inject a painful wound
if given the chance. Often referred to as a sculpin, it prefers
to live tucked away in crevices on the reef, but in certain
locales is found sitting on sandy bottoms. It grows to 17
inches but averages about 10 to 12 inches. The scorpionfish
can be found anywhere from the tide pools to over 600 feet
and is common from Southern California to the tip of Baja
California. It uses its ability to adjust its coloration to
camouflage itself among surrounding rocks or algae, waiting
for small fish to swim by. When they inevitably do, it engulfs
them with its large mouth. If stung, immerse the wound (if
possible) in hot water. This will counteract the venom. Then
you should monitor the victim for signs of allergic reaction.
Following
is a short video clip of a scorpionfish in its native habitat,
courtesy of Tom Haight Marine Wildlife Photography.
If the video clip does not automatically display, you may
be prompted to download a plug-in that will enable you to
view the video file.
(2.1MB .avi file)
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