What is the difference between a lion fish and a scorpion fish

When not wishing to draw attention to themsleves, their fins can be tucked away so as not to ruin their camouflage. As a first line of defence, Scorpionfish rely on their amazing camouflage to escape predators, while Lionfish tend to use their intimidating fins as protection.

Widespread throughout region. Identification tips Scorpionfish and lionfish are relatively large, tassled heads with big protruding eyes and large, expandable mouths. Rounded chunky bodies, flattened on the underside. Lionfish in particular have prominent spines tipped with a poisonous toxin.

Pectoral fins of some species of Scorpionfish are brightly coloured to warn of their toxicity. Scorpionfish are often covered in tassels or warts to add to their camouflage.

Some Scorpionfish use their pectoral fins in a modified walking movement to get around. Popular species Here are some of the Scorpionfish and Lionfish species you might come across on your next dive. Common Lionfish Pterois volatans A larger lionfish, growing up to 40cm in length.

Bearded Scorpionfish Scorpaenopsis oxycephala A very variable species whose colour can range from pale grey or white to dark red. Lacy Scorpionfish Rhinopias aphanes This amazingly camouflaged fish can be plain or covered in dark outlined spots. Puerto Galera. Situated only km south of the capital Manila, the curious geography of the area has created not only a perfect natural harbour, but also many picturesque beaches and coves to enjoy.

Read more about Puerto Galera. The Similan Islands in Thailand are the country's most famous diving destination, offering great visibility, stunning corals and prolific marine life. As well as the diving, they also offer picture perfect beaches and unspoilt habitats. Diving in Phuket has always been hugely popular due to its ease of access and choice of dive centres. It is one of Thailand's top tourist spots. Phi Phi Island is equally popular. Actually two main islands - Don and Lae - they are truly spectacular with limestone cliffs rising into the sky.

Although Lionfish and Scorpionfish may appear very different at first glance, they are actually very closely related. Within the family Scorpaenidae, there are three sub-families. One of these is also named Scorpaenidae and include the specifically-named scorpion fish. These fish species exhibit the typical behavior of its general family, including a sedentary lifestyle, a lie-in-wait predator technique and the use of camouflage to blend into their surroundings.

Scorpion fish are widespread in the earth's oceans and can be found in temperate and tropical waters, often in muddy and sandy areas, or places with coral.

Even though scorpion fish have bright colors to warn other animals that they are poisonous, these colors can often be hidden or obstructed by its camouflage. Lionfish are somewhat atypical of the general family Scorpaenidae.

Rather than being widespread in both temperate and tropical areas, the lionfish come from the tropical Indo-Pacific region. They are also free swimmers rather than predators that wait on the ocean floor. They grow to an average of 1 foot in length and are easily identifiable by their bright red zebra-like stripes as well as their spines that fan out in display.

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