Deepwater Scorpionfish

Setarches Guentheri
Deepwater Scorpionfish - Marinewise © 2024 MarineWise

Quick Facts

Scientific name Setarches Guentheri
Other names Deepsea Scorpionfish, Guenther's Scorpionfish
Size Up to 25 cm (9.8 in)
Weight Under .50 kg (1.10 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Deepsea, soft & rocky ocean floor
Depth Range 30 - 200 m (660 ft)
Deepwater Scorpionfish Distribution

Interesting Info

  • The Deepwater Scorpionfish can be found in various locations around Australia. They are commonly found in the deeper waters around Western Australia.
  • These scorpionfish have a distinctive appearance with a mottled coloration. They exhibit various shades of red, brown, and orange, helping them blend in with their rocky habitat. Their bodies are covered in numerous spines, providing effective camouflage and protection.
  • These Deepwater Scorpionfish are carnivorous predators. They primarily feed on small fish, crustaceans, and other benthic invertebrates. They use their excellent camouflage and ambush tactics to capture prey.
  • Deepwater Scorpionfish are not known for their swimming abilities. They are relatively sedentary and tend to stay in one location, relying on their camouflage and ambush tactics to capture prey.
  • Like other scorpionfish, Deepwater Scorpionfish possess venomous spines on their dorsal fin. These spines contain toxins that can cause painful stings if touched or stepped on, so it is essential to exercise caution and avoid contact.
  • They are believed to be egg-laying species. They release their eggs into the water, where fertilisation occurs externally. Specific details about their breeding season and habits are not readily available.
  • They have a relatively long lifespan, living up to 20 years.
Species Interaction

Recreational Fishing, Elusive Species

Deepwater Scorpionfish are not typically targeted for recreational fishing due to their depth range and habitat preferences. However, accidental catches can occur when targeting other species in their habitat. They are a relatively elusive species in terms of human interaction because of the depth of water in which they live in.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Scorpaeniformes

Family: Scorpaenidae

Genus: Setarches

Species: Setarches Guentheri

Conservation Status

The conservation status for the Deepwater Scorpionfish in Australia is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This means that they are not currently considered to be at risk of extinction.

How to catch
Deepwater Scorpionfish

Catch Difficulty: Intermediate

Tackle: Running Sinker Rig

Bait: Crab, Fresh cut flesh baits, Pilchards, Prawns, Squid, Worms

Technique: Keep bait close to the reef/structure

Popularity: Not targeted - Bycatch

Elusive / Overlooked Species

Finding: Difficult

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Location: Outer reef, Deepsea, Offshore

Danger: Dorsal and Pectoral Spine