Scorpionfish: Now you see 'em—Ouch you don't!
People often ask snorkel guides, “What can I touch or step on that will hurt me?". It's an intelligent question because of the diversity of shoreline habitats. Many creatures, including Scorpionfish, should be kept at a respectful distance. Scorpionfishes are armed with venomous spines on their dorsal and ventral fins and can be dangerous to the uninformed and unwary. The beautiful Hawaiian Turkeyfish, the most poisonous fish in the islands, lives in quiet areas and poses no threat as long as they are looked at but not touched.
The Scorpaenidae family of fishes inhabits tropical and temperate seas of the world, from shallow waters to depths of 500 feet. Of this large family, more than two dozen are seen in Hawaiian waters. Common names can be confusing. Ordinary Scorpionfish are sometimes called "stonefish," but true stonefish are not found here. This is good news for beachgoers since some Scorpionfish in other areas have a deadly cobra- like venom. The Hawaiian name for Scorpionfish is "nohu." This name is also used in other areas of the South Pacific for species that have a more powerful venom than any found here.
Both Scorpionfish in the accompanying photos are endemic (unique to Hawai'i) and both are carnivorous. Scorpionfish body colors vary greatly in order for them to adapt to their surroundings. Algae-like flaps cover the Titan's body and its lower jaw is fringed with orange and red tassels.
The magnificent Hawaiian Lionfish or Turkeyfish, flashes its bright colors and long fins to ward off predators. The small, fragile Leaf Scorpionfish (not shown), mimics the swaying motion of seaweed, moving its entire body back and forth to lure its prey. Not generally strong swimmers, most Scorpionfish will lie motionless in camouflage and then quickly dart out to devour suitable prey as it swims by. The Nohu Scorpionfish so strongly resembles a rock that an unsuspecting snorkeler can easily make a painful mistake. Injury can be prevented by wearing proper footgear, gloves and being carefully observant while entering or exiting the water.
Avoid handling or playing with these sedentary reef fish. First aid for Scorpionfish stings is to immerse the affected part of the body in very hot water until pain decreases. This denatures the protein in the venom and prevents toxic effects. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention if pain persists. But rest assured that Scorpionfish will not come after you.
There are fewer of these creatures than ever before. Hawaiian Lionfish, highly valued for their beauty and unique hunting ability, are collected for export in the aquarium trade. Larger Titan and Devil Scorpionfish are often caught with a hook-and-line and enjoyed as a delectable entree. Some species like to hide in coral heads, and if the coral is stepped on or broken by anchors, their habitat is destroyed.
If we adopt an attitude of "Look but don't touch" while exploring the underwater world, both the animals and the humans will be a lot safer. By using "Where's Waldo?" or "I Spy" skills, you might be able to boast that you encountered the dangerous Scorpionfish and came away without a scratch!
