Scorpionfish

Scorpaenidae

Masters of disguise — they sit motionless on the reef, perfectly camouflaged among rocks and coral. Watch where you put your hands and check your landing spot before kneeling; their dorsal spines carry a painful venom.

Last updated April 2026

LionfishPterois volitans12 photos

Least ConcernUp to 45 cm1–50mCoral reefRocky reefWreck

Flamboyant and unmistakable — long, feathery pectoral fins with alternating red-white stripes and venomous dorsal spines. An invasive species now spreading through the Med.

Drifts slowly near overhangs and wrecks, fanning its fins to corral prey — beautiful but venomous. Avoid brushing against those elegant spines.

Observed at

S.S. Thistlegorm(Sharm El Sheikh)

StonefishSynanceia verrucosa3 photos

Least ConcernUp to 40 cm1–30mCoral reefSandRocky reef

The world's most venomous fish — warty, lumpy body that looks exactly like encrusted rock. Nearly impossible to spot even when you know it's there.

Sits perfectly still on rubble or coral, relying entirely on camouflage. Potentially lethal venom in dorsal spines — never touch unidentified lumpy rocks.

Observed at

Jackson reef(Strait of Tiran)

Tasseled scorpionfishScorpaenopsis oxycephala1 photos

Least ConcernUp to 36 cm3–35mCoral reefRocky reef

A large, ornate scorpionfish with fleshy tassels and skin flaps above the eyes and along the jaw. Mottled brown, red and white camouflage pattern.

Masters of ambush — sits motionless on coral rubble, nearly invisible. Venomous spines, so keep a safe distance and admire the camouflage artistry.

Observed at

S.S. Thistlegorm(Sharm El Sheikh)

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