Red Scorpionfish

Red Scorpionfish

Scorpaena scrofa

Least Concern

Image generated by artificial intelligence

DESCRIPTION

The Red Scorpionfish hides in plain sight, its skin frills and mottled reds breaking up its outline so prey drifts close without noticing. When it breeds, it releases a pair of clear, jelly-like egg "balloons" that rise toward the surface and drift with the currents until the larvae hatch.

Max Length 50 cm
Max Weight 3 kg
Lifespan 10 - 25 years
Habitat Seabed, underwater cave, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 20 - 500 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Nocturnal
Social Behavior Solitary
Range

Where Red Scorpionfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Red Scorpionfish

Where can you see the Red Scorpionfish?

The Red Scorpionfish can be seen at 6 dive destinations in Spain. The best spots include Balearic Islands (Spain), Cabo de Gata (Spain), Cabo de Palos (Spain), Canary Islands (Spain), and La Herradura (Spain).

What is the best time to see the Red Scorpionfish?

The Red Scorpionfish can be seen all year round at Balearic Islands, Cabo de Gata, Cabo de Palos, La Herradura, and Medes Islands.

How big does the Red Scorpionfish get?

The Red Scorpionfish can reach up to 50 cm in length and 3 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Red Scorpionfish live in?

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

How deep does the Red Scorpionfish live?

The Red Scorpionfish lives between 20 and 500 m deep.

What does the Red Scorpionfish eat?

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

When is the Red Scorpionfish most active?

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

Does the Red Scorpionfish live in groups?

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

How long does the Red Scorpionfish live?

The Red Scorpionfish lives 10 to 25 years.

What is the conservation status of the Red Scorpionfish?

The Red 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 Red Scorpionfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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