Lacy Scorpionfish (Rhinopias aphanes) Care Guide
Rhinopias aphanes is a Coral Sea scorpionfish reaching about 25 cm, with lacy patterning. A camouflaged benthic ambush predator that walks on its fins.
Overview
Rhinopias aphanes, the lacy scorpionfish, belongs to the family Scorpaenidae. FishBase records a maximum of 25 cm total length and describes it as a rare species with a short, deep body. It is heavily ornamented with lacy fronds and patterns and was formally described by Eschmeyer in 1973.
Taxonomy
- Family: Scorpaenidae
- Genus: Rhinopias
- Scientific name: Rhinopias aphanes Eschmeyer, 1973
Habitat
FishBase reports a Western Pacific range restricted to the Coral Sea and adjacent waters, with records from Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu and northeastern Australia. It is benthic and solitary, inhabiting coral slopes and soft-bottom habitats at depths of about 5 to 30 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 500 L (132 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- GH: 8-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-18 years
Diet
Rhinopias aphanes is a carnivore. Wikipedia reports it preys primarily on smaller fish, ambushing them using camouflage. It moves along the seabed by walking and hopping on its pelvic and pectoral fins rather than swimming.
Compatibility
The species is solitary and primarily nocturnal. The verified record advises against small fish, ornamental shrimp and aggressive triggers, pairing it with large, robust tankmates.
Behaviour
Wikipedia notes it expels water through branchial tubes to make the dorsal-fin tentacles quiver, mimicking swaying algae and improving its concealment.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2015). FishBase rates fishing vulnerability as low and describes it as harmless to humans.