Synanceia horrida

Scorpion fishes and others

  • Estuarine stonefish
  • Steinfisch
  • Poisson pierre d'estuaire

Distribution

  • The tropical Pacific
  • The Indian Ocean

Environment and movement of the diurnal species

  • The species is generally observed in a sandy/silty area.
  • The species is generally motionless in its environment
  • The species is generally found on or close to the seafloor.
  • The species can be found between 0 and 40 Meters.
  • Rare species.
  • Hides in branchy corals and rods.

Environment and movement of the nocturnal species

  • The species is generally observed on the reef or near it.
  • The species is generally motionless in its environment
  • The species is generally found on or close to the seafloor.

General behaviour of the species

  • Species generally solitary
  • Hides in branchy corals and rods.
  • The animal is rather indifferent to the diver, though it remains on its guard

General characteristics of the species

  • Maximum size : 60 cm
  • The animal is a hunter high in the food chain.
  • Diet : Fishes -
  • The animal changes colour like a chameleon

Relationship with humans

  • The spines of the animal can be very dangerous
  • The species is in great demand and highly appreciated
  • The species is exploited in the following sector(s) :
    • - Aquarium enthusiasts.
    • - Fishing or commercial aquiculture for food
    • -Sport or local fishing
The species can be confused with other species of similar appearance!