Scorpionfish

Depth: 50 m · Sunlight Zone

The scorpionfish sits motionless and looks like an algae-covered stone, perfectly camouflaged. Its dorsal spines carry venom for defense. When prey comes close enough, it opens its big mouth and sucks it in within a split second.

For scientists

Scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae) rely on camouflage and ambush; their dorsal spines carry venom glands used purely for defense. They regularly molt their algae-covered outer skin. They capture prey by explosively expanding the mouth cavity in a few milliseconds.

🌊 Swim straight to it in 3D

Discover more

SardineSawfishScaly-foot snailSea AnemoneSea cucumberSea otterAll cards in the library