Como identificar Large-scaled Scorpionfish

Para identificar Large-scaled Scorpionfish (Scorpaena scrofa), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

compressed

Coloração

Highly variable, ranging from reddish-brown to orange, pink, or mottled grey, often with darker blotches and bands that aid in camouflage. The ventral side is typically lighter. The inner pectoral fins often display bright red or orange coloration, sometimes with dark spots.

Tipo de escama

ctenoid

Posição da boca

superior

Características distintivas

Large, broad head with numerous spines, ridges, and dermal flaps (cirri)., Prominent supraorbital tentacles (cirri) above the eyes., Large, upward-pointing mouth., Robust, spiny dorsal fin., Large, fan-like pectoral fins., Absence of scales on the head, but large, ctenoid scales cover the body.

Nadadeira dorsal

Single, long dorsal fin with 12 strong, venomous spines in the anterior part and 9-10 soft rays in the posterior part. A deep notch separates the spiny and soft-rayed portions.

Nadadeira caudal

Rounded caudal fin, typically with 10-12 rays.

Nadadeira peitoral

Large, fan-shaped pectoral fins with 18-21 rays, often with distinctive coloration on the inner surface.

Nadadeiras características

Anal fin with 3 venomous spines and 5-6 soft rays. Pelvic fins thoracic, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Head Spines and Cirri

   Look for the numerous spines and ridges on the head, particularly the prominent supraorbital tentacles above the eyes. These are key distinguishing features from other scorpionfish species.

2. 2

   Body Coloration and Pattern

   Observe the highly variable, mottled coloration that allows it to blend with its surroundings. The presence of darker blotches and bands is common.

3. 3

   Inner Pectoral Fin Coloration

   If visible, the bright red or orange coloration, sometimes with dark spots, on the inner surface of the pectoral fins is a strong indicator.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin Spines

   Count the 12 strong, venomous spines in the anterior part of the dorsal fin, separated by a deep notch from the soft-rayed portion.

5. 5

   Body Scales

   Note the large, ctenoid scales covering the body, contrasting with the scaleless head.

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