Pterois sphex Jordan & Evermann, 1903
Hawaiian turkeyfish
Pterois sphex
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Scorpaenidae (Scorpionfishes or rockfishes), subfamily: Pteroinae
Max. size:  22 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 3 - 122 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Eastern Central Pacific: known only from Hawaii.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 13-13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-12; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 6-8. Pectoral rays all unbranched, very long and free from membrane distally; dorsal spines very long, some about as long as body depth. Ctenoid scales with about 50-55 vertical scale rows; coronal spines present; most head spines become multiple with growth. Lachrymal and suborbital bones densely covered with spines for specimen 10 cm SL. Supraocular tentacles banded with black, frequently tentacles absent in large specimens. Small specimens with fewer bars on pectoral and pelvic fins.
Biology:  Inhabits lagoon and seaward reefs (Ref. 9710). Benthic (Ref. 58302). Generally hidden beneath ledges or caves during the day; a nocturnal feeder on crustaceans (Ref. 3921).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 03 March 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  venomous


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