Scorpion Fish

Staff · Issue 16, Dec/Jan 2003 · pp. 34–39

Products mentioned: Nikon F801, Nikon F90X, 60mm micro lens, 105mm micro lens, Subal housing, Sea & Sea YS50, Inon Quad flash, Fujichrome Velvia

34 One of the most common misconceptions regarding diving is the danger of large denizons hunting us down and consuming us or at the very least biting off large portions. History is full of myth and legends surrounding giant squid, octopus, whales and any number of sea monsters, whilst in recent years it is inevitably the shark which generates the greatest undeserved fear. But the reality for most of us is that we feel blessed when we encounter one of these larger beasts whilst the real dangers come from much smaller venomous species. Many of these fish and invertebrates often have incredible camouflage which increases the hazard for the unwary diver, whilst others advertise their danger with gaudy colours and patterns. Possibly the most prolific species are the scorpionfish and their relatives which are found in almost every sea around the globe. Their defensive venom can range from a s…