Plumed Scorpionfish

Scorpaena grandicornis

Uncommon: So named for the long fleshy plumes above each eye. The Plumed Scorpionfish is not observed very often because if it's extremely elaborate and numerous skin flaps, spikes and appendages that make him blend in so well with his habitat that he virtually becomes a clump of algae. His eye is the only thing that gives him away. His colors of mottled greens and brown contribute to his camouflage defense. Body size reaches 7 inches, one half the full grown Spotted Scorpionfish. They inhabit the sea floor where algae flourishes. The fore dorsal spines are poisonous. Beware not to step on them.