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]
| Jenkin's scorpionfish | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Perciformes |
| Family: | Scorpaenidae |
| Genus: | Scorpaenopsis |
| Species: | S. cacopsis
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| Binomial name | |
| Scorpaenopsis cacopsis O. P. Jenkins, 1901
| |
Description and Biology
editScorpaenopsis 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
editScorpionfish 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
editThe 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.