Bearded Scorpionfish

Description:

Bearded scorpionfishes, Scorpaenopsis barbata (Rüppell, 1838), reach 22 cm in length and they have 12 dorsal spinesexternal link, 9 dorsal soft rays, 3 anal spines, 5 anal soft rays, and 24 vertebraeexternal link. The bearded scorpionfish's body is heavily pigmented dark brown or reddish brown, mottled with whitish and blackish blotches; often with a dark brown bar extending ventrally from posterior half of eye and broadening onto lower cheek. Dorsal, anal, and pelvic spines can bear venom gland.

Habitat:

Tropical Reef

Notes:

Scorpionfish, in general is well camouflage especially when they are resting on coral rubbles and/or next to corals. Their colors varies with patches that makes them camouflage easily with their surrounding. The Bearded Sccorpionfish has nice appendages in the face, below the mouth.