divepix - Spotted Scorpionfish

Spotted Scorpionfish

Aspect:	When spotted, ususally appears as a compact mass resembling a stone. The older the specimen, the more camouflaging parasites (including cnidarians!) it will carry. Younger "cleaner" specimens still reveal a mottled white/red or withe/brown appearence. Owes more its name to its venomous dorsal fins rather than to its stout physiognomy. As a matter of fact, another Scorpenidae, the Lionfish, displays a quite different physical appearance.
Population:	Common.
Notable feature:	Distiguishes itself from other scorpionfish with the three dark vertical bars across tail fin.
Environment:	Rests quitely on a rock or substrate (rock or wreck deck) whith which it will blend.
Behaviour:	So confident in its camouflage it will not budge when approached. Actually needs to be provoked to take a short swim to display unexpectedly colourful pectoral fins.