California Scorpionfish [Scorpaena guttata]
Description
California Scorpionfish, also known as Scorpaena guttata, is a marine fish species that inhabits the eastern Pacific Ocean. Its range extends from Monterey Bay, California, to the Gulf of California, Mexico. This fish species prefers rocky bottoms and reefs at depths between 20 to 200 feet. It is characterized by a stout body with a large, spiny head and strong, venomous spines on the dorsal fin. Its color varies from brown to reddish, with dark blotches and spotting. The California Scorpionfish is a carnivorous species, feeding on benthic invertebrates and small fishes.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Fish
Actinopterygii
|
| Order |
Scorpionfishes and Flatheads
Scorpaeniformes
|
| Family |
Scorpionfishes
Scorpaenidae
|
| Genus |
California Scorpionfish
Scorpaenichthys
|