Scorpaenopsis cacopsis
| Jenkin's scorpionfish | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Perciformes |
| Family: | Scorpaenidae |
| Genus: | Scorpaenopsis |
| Species: | S. cacopsis
|
| Binomial name | |
| Scorpaenopsis cacopsis O. P. Jenkins, 1901
| |
Scorpaenopsis cacopsis, also known as Jenkin's scorpionfish, is a species of venomous marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Scorpaenidae, the scorpionfishes. This species is found off Hawaii.[2]
Description and Biology
[edit]Scorpaenopsis cacopsis, is a visually striking species recognized for its elaborate, fringed appearance, which also aids in camouflage.[3] Characterized by a flattened body and mottled brown to reddish coloration, its robust look blends effectively with rocky and coral reefs.[4] This species reaches a length of 51.0 cm (20.1 in).[5]
As ambush predators, they remain motionless on the ocean floor until unsuspecting prey comes too close, allowing them to suck in their catch with their large mouths.[5] Injuries from scorpionfish can be avoided by not standing on or touching the reef.[6] If stung, treating the injury quickly is important by soaking the affected area in hot water.[6] Scorpionfish are generally solitary in the wild and only come together for breeding.[7] Breeding them in captivity is uncommon and not well-documented.[7]
Distribution & Habitat
[edit]Scorpionfish inhabit the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Samoa and southern Japan.[8] They commonly reside in ledges and caves in Hawai'i along outer coral reefs, often resting motionless on the sea floor or in crevices, at depths of 10 to 200 feet. [9]They mainly hunt at night, preying on small fish and crustaceans.[10] As carnivores, they need a protein-rich diet, primarily consuming marine fish, crustaceans, clams, and other meaty foods.[10]
Cultural Significance
[edit]The Hawaiian name "nohu" also refers to the land plant Tribulus terrestris, or puncture vine, whose sharp seeds can puncture feet, reminiscent of the scorpionfish's venomous spines that deliver a painful sting.[11] The scorpionfish fish is a prized food item with its population reducing rapidly in the Hawaiian islands, due to spear fishermen overfishing.[12]
References
[edit]- ^ Motomura, H. & Matsuura, K. (2016). "Scorpaenopsis cacopsis". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2016: e.T69918587A70009955. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-3.RLTS.T69918587A70009955.en. Retrieved 16 February 2024.
{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link) - ^ Randall, J.E and W.N. Eschmeyer, 2001. Revision of the Indo-Pacific scorpionfish genus Scopaenopsis, with descriptions of eight new species. Indo-Pac. Fish. (34):79 p.
- ^ "Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument". www.papahanaumokuakea.gov. Retrieved 2024-11-06.
- ^ Center (U.S.), Southwest Fisheries (1982). Collected Reprints. [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration], National Marine Fisheries Service, Southwest Fisheries Center.
- ^ a b "Section: Fish Library: Group: Scorpionfishes: Species: Scorpaenopsis cacopsis (Titan Scorpionfish)". www.saltcorner.com. Retrieved 2024-11-06.
- ^ a b "Scorpionfishes & Rockfishes, Family Scorpaenidae". www.marinelifephotography.com. Retrieved 2024-11-06.
- ^ a b "Jenkin's scorpionfish · Scorpaenopsis cacopsis". Reeflings. Retrieved 2024-11-06.
- ^ "Jenkin's scorpionfish · Scorpaenopsis cacopsis". Reeflings. Retrieved 2024-11-06.
- ^ Center (U.S.), Southwest Fisheries (1982). Collected Reprints. [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration], National Marine Fisheries Service, Southwest Fisheries Center.
- ^ a b "Section: Fish Library: Group: Scorpionfishes: Species: Scorpaenopsis cacopsis (Titan Scorpionfish)". www.saltcorner.com. Retrieved 2024-11-06.
- ^ "Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument". www.papahanaumokuakea.gov. Retrieved 2024-11-06.
- ^ "Scorpaenopsis cacopsis summary page". FishBase. Retrieved 2024-11-14.