| Jenkin's scorpionfish | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| 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]
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]
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 Hawaiʻi 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]
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]
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