Stone fish
Scientific name : Synanceia verrucosa
Large scorpion fish, very effectively camouflaged. The body is really similar to a rock, the appendages are very well hidden. Often unnoticed. Colour changes between white and dark brown, eyes slightly prominent, separated by a large groove, mouth opening upward. 35 cm. Compared with Synanceia horrida it is more squat, with less prominent, more distant eyes. Possible confusion with Scorpaenopsis diabolus, the false stone fish, that is more elongated, with horizontal mouth opening and prominent humpback.
The close up shot highlights the menacing look of this venomous fish. Stone fishes are the most venomous among scorpion fishes, their dorsal spines, each connected with a large venom gland, can kill a human. Se the general scorpion fish page for info about their poison.
Associated organisms
Often it is covered by algae and hydroids, contributing to camouflage.
Habitat:
Coastal bay, Lagoon, Reef external slope
Distribution:
Indo-Pacific
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