The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish (Caracanthus maculatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The spotted coral croucher is a very small reef fish of the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the East Indies to the Line and Austral Islands and northern Japan. It grows to only about 5 cm and has a small, deep, laterally compressed body that is light brown to grey with numerous small reddish-brown spots. It lives hidden among the branches of Pocillopora and Acropora corals on shallow, surge-swept reef crests. Unlike many related scorpionfishes this species has no venom in its fin spines and is regarded as harmless. The fish feeds on small crustaceans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish?
The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish live?
The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish get?
The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Scarlet-spotted velvetfish edible?
The Scarlet-spotted velvetfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Caracanthus
More from the family Scorpaenidae
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