Common name: Tassled scorpionfish
General information
The Tasseled Scorpionfish, scientifically known as Scorpaenopsis oxycephala, is a striking species known for its elaborate fringed appearance and ability to blend into its surroundings. This fish is part of the Scorpaenidae family, which includes some of the most venomous species in the ocean. The tasseled scorpionfish has venomous spines that can inflict painful wounds, so caution is advised when handling or maintaining an aquarium with this species.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 35 cm (1′2″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Watch for venomous spines
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live or frozen food
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be aggressive to smaller fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderScorpionfishesScorpaeniformes
- FamilyScorpionfishScorpaenidae
- GenusScorpionfishScorpaenopsis
- SpeciesTassled scorpionfishScorpaenopsis oxycephala (Bleeker, 1849)
- SynonymsScorpaena oxycephalus Bleeker, 1849Scorpaeopsis oxycephalus (Bleeker, 1849)
Care
Tasseled Scorpionfish require a well-structured aquarium with plenty of hiding places to mimic their natural habitat. They are ambush predators, so the tank should have ample space for them to lie in wait for their prey. They can be fed a diet of live or frozen foods such as shrimp, fish, and squid. Due to their sedentary nature, care should be taken to ensure they are not outcompeted for food by more aggressive tank mates.
Reproduction
In the wild, Tasseled Scorpionfish are solitary creatures, coming together only to breed. Little is known about their breeding habits in home aquariums, as they are not commonly bred in captivity. However, like many marine fish, they are likely to release eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs externally.
Habitat
The Tasseled Scorpionfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer reef environments and are often seen resting on coral heads or camouflaged against the reef substrate. They can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 35 meters.