Gilchrist's scorpionfish
📖 Overview
Gilchrist's scorpionfish (Scorpaenopsis gilchristi) is a ray-finned fish of the family Scorpaenidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 6 cm. With a trophic level of 3.5, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 5. With united pores at symphysis of the lower jaw, lachrymal with 5 spines and 2 predorsal scales . Suborbital ridge directly below eye; no suborbital pit; pores at symphysis of lower jaw open medially to a deep midventral pit (Ref 42181).: fusiform / normal.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Gilchrist's scorpionfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal; depth range ? - 26 m . Subtropical South Africa.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dendroscorpaena gilchristi | Smith | 1957 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 2 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
No observations yet - be the first to log one!
View all observations for Gilchrist's scorpionfish ↗Spotted incorrect or outdated data? Submit a correction and our editorial team will review it. Approved edits go live within 48 hours.
Found a factual error, broken data, or inappropriate content? Let us know and we will investigate promptly.