Spotted Scorpionfish

Scorpaena plumieri

The Spotted Scorpionfish is the largest Scorpionfish found in our waters, growing to 1.5 feet in length. They will not move unless disturbed, and I mean really disturbed. I had one stubborn fellow who allowed me to touch him with a decent amount of pressure until he finally streaked away. They are a master at camouflage thanks to the numerous fleshy flaps all over their bodies but large ones on their chin and head. These help them blend into their surroundings near growths of algae. They usually lay on the bottom, but I have also observed them in and on top of reef structures. Colors are mottles from almost white to brownish-greenish and white, pinks and grays.