Scorpaena jacksoniensis

A common site for Sydney Divers, the eastern red scorpion fish will lie motionless in shallow waters until it’s disturbed. It is generally easy to spot, its colour varying from fish to fish from bright red to light grey; its skin flaps helping it alter its appearance so that it doesn’t appear to be a fish to its passing prey.

It enjoys rocky shores and reefs and we’ll often see in sponge gardens and rocks covered with algae. Scorpion fish lie in wait for small fish and the like. They swallow their prey whole in their large mouth.

Tons to see under the waves in Sydney

You’ll find scorpion fish on our dives to the sponge gardens.

Dive with sharks in Sydney

Sydney shark dives are awesome. Join us as we dive Sydney’s top shark diving spots.

Quick facts on scorpion fish

• They are toxic to humans and a sting from one of their twelve dorsal spines can prove extremely painful (the excruciating pain can last up to half the day.)
• Should you be stung, you can relieve the pain before visiting the doctor by immersing the affected area in hot water.