If you touch the venomous spines of a member of the Scorpaenoidei you will discover for yourself how their name is derived. Our SCUBA diving and snorkelling policy is to make contact with nothing – which makes particular sense when seen in this light! The Lionfish is also popular with divers and underwater photographers for its flamboyant fins and not-so-shy behavior.
Our endemic species of lion fish (aka firefish). Named after the lack of spots on the dorsal, anal and tail fins.
This fish is not a resident; it survived only a month or so at Sail Rock. Probably came over in an aquarium from the west coast...
Juveniles have a bright white colouration whereas adults are well camouflaged. All are meant to have bright orange pectoral fins that they can flash as a warning.
We used to identify this beast (which is our common variety), as the raggy scorpionfish (S. venosa) but we are still not 100% sure...
Looking so like a stone that you will rarely see one!
Marine Life Directory
