The Eastern Red Scorpionfish, Grandfather Hapuku, Cardinal Scorpionfish, Cook’s Rockcod, Kermadec Scorpionfish, Northern Scorpionfish, Red Scorpion Fish, Red Scorpion-cod, Sandy-bay Cod, scientifically known as Scorpaena cardinalis, is a species of marine fish belonging to the scorpionfish family (Scorpaenidae). This species is found in the Pacific Ocean, inhabiting a variety of marine zones.
Description & Characteristics
Scorpaena cardinalis is a relatively small scorpionfish, reaching a maximum size of 40.5 cm. Its body is typically reddish-brown with white or yellow markings, and it possesses numerous spines along its dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins. These spines, which are venomous, serve as a defense mechanism against potential predators.
Habitat and Occurrence
Scorpaena cardinalis can be found in a wide range of depths, from the shallow intertidal zone to depths of 154 meters. This adaptability allows it to inhabit various marine ecosystems, including rocky reefs, sandy bottoms, and seagrass meadows. It is a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems, with a distribution that spans across the Pacific Ocean.
Taxonomy
Scorpaena cardinalis belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Scorpaenidae. This classification places it within a group of bony fishes known as teleosts, further categorized into the perch-like order (Perciformes), and ultimately within the scorpionfish family (Scorpaenidae).
Feeding
Scorpaena cardinalis is a carnivorous fish that feeds primarily on crustaceans, small fishes, and various zoobenthos organisms. Its diet is characteristic of its predatory lifestyle, reflecting its adaptation to hunting and consuming a diverse range of marine invertebrates and small fishes.
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