Fish
Poisson
Black scorpionfish
Scorpaena porcus
Out of season
—
Fishing zones
Wild
Origin
14 cm
Minimum size
Description
The body is robust and laterally compressed. The head is broad, with numerous spines and characteristic skin flaps (tentacles) above the eyes. It has supraorbital tentacles (above the eye) that are generally short, not exceeding half the diameter of the eye. Its coloration is mottled with brown, reddish, and sometimes blackish tones, providing excellent camouflage. It often has a dark spot on the spiny portion of the dorsal fin. Like all scorpionfish, the rays of its dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins are equipped with venom glands. The sting is very painful. Its average size is 15 cm, but it can reach a maximum length of 37 cm. It is a ambush predator. It feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans (shrimp, crabs), and worms, which it swallows by rapidly sucking them into its mouth.
Habitat
A marine, benthic (bottom-dwelling), and sedentary species. It is generally found between 0 and 80 meters, but is most common in the first 20 meters. It particularly favors rocky bottoms and Posidonia (Posidonia oceanica) seagrass beds. It is a discreet fish that remains motionless during the day, relying on its homochromy (camouflage) to blend into the surroundings.
Distribution
Its range covers mainly the eastern Atlantic and adjacent seas. From the coasts of the British Isles (rare) to Morocco, including the Azores and the Canary Islands. Very common throughout the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea. It is also found in the Sea of Azov.