Behavioural data for Plumed scorpionfish is currently being
reviewed.
🦐 Diet
aquatic invertebrates
small fish
algae
detritus
🥚 Reproduction
🐣 Oviparous
Oviparous .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 1 - 15 m . Tropical; 32°N - 33°S
Antigua and BarbudaBrazilColombiaCubaGPHaitiHondurasMexicoPRPanamaSaint LuciaUnited States
🌿 Ecology
Zone Preferences
🌊 Marine🪸 Reef Associated
Trophic Level
3.7±0.5
📐 Morphometrics
Length–Weight Relationship:
W = 0.01349 × L3.01
(TL)
Max TL
30cm
Dorsal Spines
12
Dorsal Rays
9
Anal Spines
3
Anal Rays
5
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
Salinity Range
30–40ppt
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
IUCN Category
Least Concern
Assessment Date
2012
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
Population Resilience
Medium
Minimum doubling time
Fishing Vulnerability
37.00/100
Moderate vulnerability
Trophic Level
3.7
Predator
Body Shape
Fusiform / normal
Climate Zone
Tropical
Latitude Range
32°N
–
33°S
Described By
Cuvier, 1829
⚠️ Venom Profile
Medical Warning: This species is venomous. Seek immediate medical attention
if envenomated.
Contact emergency services and follow first aid guidance below.
Venom Type
proteinaceous neurotoxin
Delivery
dorsal, anal, and pelvic fin spines
Potency
Severe
Mortality Risk
Low
Symptom Onset
5min
Duration
24.0hrs
Antivenom
✗ Not Available
Named Toxins
high-molecular-weight protein (Stonustoxin analogue)acetylcholine
Symptoms
immediate intense pain
swelling
erythema
occasional nausea and weakness
Affected Body Systems
peripheral nervous systemcardiovascular
First Aid
Immerse affected area in hot water (45 C, tolerable) for 30-90 minutes to denature toxin. Do not apply ice.
Medical Treatment
Analgesia; wound care; tetanus prophylaxis; severe cases may require monitoring for systemic effects.
References:
Compiled from Bhide (2018), Halstead et al. (1988) and family-specific envenomation literature