Description
The Bearded Scorpionfish is a master of camouflage, featuring mottled brown, red, and tan coloration with fleshy “beard-like” appendages (cirri) around its mouth and head. It blends seamlessly into rocks and sand, waiting to ambush prey. This unique appearance and predatory behavior make it a fascinating species for specialized marine aquariums.
Native:
Indo-Pacific region including the Red Sea, East Africa, Indonesia, and surrounding reef systems.
Lighting:
Low to moderate lighting (prefers subdued environments).
Placement:
Bottom dweller. Requires sandy substrate and rock structures for hiding and ambush. Minimal water flow preferred in resting areas. Minimum tank size: 75–100 gallons (280–380 liters).
Temperature:
24–28°C (75–82°F)
Salinity:
1.020–1.025 SG
pH:
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity:
8–12 dKH
Diet:
Carnivore. Feeds on live or frozen meaty foods such as shrimp, small fish, and silversides. May require training to accept frozen foods.
Adult Size:
Up to 25 cm (10 inches)
Care Level:
Moderate (requires careful feeding and species-specific setup)
Compatibility:
Predatory and semi-aggressive. Best kept with larger, non-aggressive fish that cannot be swallowed. Will eat small fish and crustaceans.
Not reef-safe.
⚠️ Caution: Venomous spines — handle with extreme care.
