Weedy Scorpionfish, Rhinopias aphanes Eschmeyer, 1973

Introduction

The Weedy Scorpionfish is easily overlooked by divers even though it sits on the coral, often in full view. The species varies in colour from yellow to brown, green or black and is covered by a camouflaging maze-like pattern.

Identification

The species has a distinctive head shape, an upturned mouth, tentacles on the snout, and skin flaps on the body. The species varies in colour from yellow to brown, green or black and is covered by a maze-like pattern. Surprisingly, the Weedy Scorpionfish is easily overlooked by divers even though it sits on the coral, often in full view.

Habitat

The species is found in coral reefs between depths of 6 m to 25 m.

Distribution

The Weedy Scorpionfish is recorded from north-eastern Australia as well as other areas of the Pacific and Japan.

The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.

References

1. Allen, G.R. & R. Swainston. 1988. The Marine Fishes of North-Western Australia. A Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Western Australian Museum. Pp. 201.
2. Hoese, D.F., Bray, D.J., Paxton, J.R. & G.R. Allen. 2006. Fishes. In Beesley, P.L. & A. Wells. (eds) Zoological Catalogue of Australia. Volume 35. ABRS & CSIRO Publishing: Australia. parts 1-3, pages 1-2178.
3. Kuiter, R.H. 1996. Guide to Sea Fishes of Australia. New Holland. Pp. 433.
4. Randall, J.E., Allen, G.R. & R.C. Steene. 1990. Fishes of the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea. Crawford House Press. Pp. 507.