Parascorpaena
Parascorpaena is a genus of scorpionfishes in the family Scorpaenidae. This genus comprises 11 species, which are distinguished by their relatively small size, body shape, and distribution.
Common Names
Species of Parascorpaena are commonly known as dwarf scorpionfishes, pigmy scorpionfishes, or false scorpionfishes. These names reflect their small size, which distinguishes them from other members of the Scorpaenidae family.
Characteristics
Members of the genus Parascorpaena share several defining characteristics. These include:
- A compressed body shape, typically shorter and deeper than that of other scorpionfishes.
- A small mouth, often located at the end of a short snout.
- A relatively small number of spines on their dorsal fins compared to other scorpionfishes.
- A distinctive coloration, often featuring intricate patterns and hues.
Environments
Parascorpaena species are found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They are typically found in shallow, rocky reefs and seagrass beds, where they often hide among crevices and other structures.
References
For further information on Parascorpaena, refer to the following resources: