Whiteblotched scorpionfish
📖 Overview
Whiteblotched scorpionfish (Scorpaenopsis lactomaculata), first described by Herre, 1945 is a medium-sized fish in the family Scorpaenidae (order Perciformes). Adults typically reach 28.00 cm in maximum length. It inhabits marine coastal and open-ocean environments. It occurs in Subtropical waters. Diet is predominantly piscivorous, targeting other fish and larger prey. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is venomous and potentially dangerous to handle.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Fourth or fifth dorsal spine usually longest (2.05-2.5) in head; occipital pit absent or very shallow; snout very long (2.7-3.0 in head length); space between opercular spines naked; first dorsal spine short (1.8-2.5) in length of second spine; supraocular and postocular spines broadly joined in adults (only tip of supraocular spine showing) and flaring outward to form a shelf over posterior half of eye (Ref 42181).: fusiform / normal.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Whiteblotched scorpionfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; demersal. Subtropical Indian Ocean.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
⚠️ Venom Profile
- immediate intense pain
- swelling
- erythema
- occasional nausea and weakness
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
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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