Weedy Scorpionfish (Rhinopias frondosa) Care Guide
Rhinopias frondosa is an ornate scorpionfish reaching about 23 cm, covered in weed-like tassels. A camouflaged nocturnal ambush predator.
Overview
Rhinopias frondosa, the weedy scorpionfish, belongs to the family Scorpaenidae. FishBase records a maximum of 23 cm total length. The body is highly compressed and covered with weed-like tassels, and colour ranges widely across red, yellow and purple, with circular dark-margined spots.
Taxonomy
- Family: Scorpaenidae
- Genus: Rhinopias
- Scientific name: Rhinopias frondosa (Günther, 1892)
Habitat
FishBase reports an Indo-West Pacific range from South Africa (off Durban) east to southern Japan, the Caroline Islands and eastern Australia. It occurs in rich soft-bottom habitats in current-prone channels and in rocky or coralline habitats near algae, across a broad depth range.
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 frondosa is a carnivore. FishBase and Wikipedia report it feeds on fish and small invertebrates, hunting at night using ambush tactics and moving along the bottom with its fins rather than swimming.
Compatibility
The species is solitary and nocturnal. The verified record advises against small fish, ornamental shrimp and aggressive triggers, pairing it with large, robust tankmates.
Venom
Like other scorpionfishes, Rhinopias frondosa is venomous; its fin spines can deliver a painful sting and require careful handling.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2015).