Black Scorpionfish

Black Scorpionfish

Scorpaena porcus

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Black Scorpionfish has a built‑in optical trick: a subtle daytime eyeshine that helps hide its pupil so the eye doesn’t give away its hiding place. It also releases its eggs inside clear, jelly‑like rafts that drift near the surface until the young hatch.

Max Length 40.5 cm
Max Weight 870 g
Lifespan 6 - 12 years
Habitat Seabed, underwater cave, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 800 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Nocturnal
Social Behavior Solitary

Destinations to spot Black Scorpionfish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Black Scorpionfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Black Scorpionfish

Where can you see the Black Scorpionfish?

The Black Scorpionfish can be seen at 5 dive destinations in Spain. The best spots include Balearic Islands (Spain), Cabo de Gata (Spain), Cabo de Palos (Spain), La Herradura (Spain), and Medes Islands (Spain).

What is the best time to see the Black Scorpionfish?

Sightings of the Black Scorpionfish peak at different times depending on the destination: Balearic Islands from April to November, Cabo de Gata from April to November, Cabo de Palos from April to November, and La Herradura from April to November.

How big does the Black Scorpionfish get?

The Black Scorpionfish can reach up to 40.5 cm in length and 870 g in weight.

What habitat does the Black Scorpionfish live in?

The Black Scorpionfish is found in these habitats: seabed, underwater cave, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Black Scorpionfish live?

The Black Scorpionfish lives from the surface down to 800 m.

What does the Black Scorpionfish eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Black Scorpionfish most active?

Active after dark, resting or hidden away during the day. Night dives are when it comes out.

Does the Black Scorpionfish live in groups?

No. The Black Scorpionfish is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Black Scorpionfish live?

The Black Scorpionfish lives 6 to 12 years.

What is the conservation status of the Black Scorpionfish?

The Black Scorpionfish is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Black Scorpionfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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