Scorpaenidae

© Christopher Hamilton 2011

Members of the scorrpionfish family often advertise their toxic properties with stunning flamboyant coluors or elongated banner-like spines protruding from their body. Yet their remarkable capacity for camouflage and the stealthy habits that make them such exceptional hunters can also make them exceedingly difficult for the untrained eye to spot. There are 37 species, most of whom are to be found either wedged into an inconspicuous crevice in the coral or partically buried in the sand. They hunt small fishes and crustaceans, remaining entirely motionless until their prey is within striking distance, then lurching forward with lightning speed to consume the patiently awaited prize. Some species, such as the lionfishes on page 3 also hunt in groups, cornering small fishes as a team and blocking any escape with their stunning fan-like fins and barbs.