Scorpaenodes xyris (Jordan & Gilbert, 1882)
Rainbow scorpionfish
Scorpaenodes xyris
photo by Robertson, R.

Family:  Scorpaenidae (Scorpionfishes or rockfishes), subfamily: Scorpaeninae
Max. size:  15 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 0 - 30 m
Distribution:  Eastern Pacific: California, USA to Peru and the Galapagos Islands (Ref. 9341). Based on genetic studies, populations from the Galapagos Islands and mainland part of the tropical eastern Pacific may represent two distinct species and suggest one as endemic to the Galapagos Islands (Ref. 103992).
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  A common but inconspicuous species (Ref. 9341). Found in cracks, crevices, under ledge overhangs and other recesses on rocky reefs, steep slopes, and especially on walls. Small individuals often stay near the protective spines of long spined urchin, Diadema mexicanum (Ref. 5227). Anterolateral glandular groove with venom gland (Ref. 57406).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 01 May 2008 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  venomous


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