Sebastapistes tinkhami (Fowler, 1946)
Darkspotted scorpionfish
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Scorpaenidae (Scorpionfishes or rockfishes), subfamily: Scorpaeninae
Max. size:  10 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 30 m
Distribution:  Indo-Pacific.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 12-12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9-9; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 5-5. With dark spots, especially on rear of body and rear fins (Ref. 4313). Description: Characterized by yellowish or tan color with irregular brown bars and blotches and small brown to reddish spots; ctenoid scales; presence of palatine teeth; absence of occipital pit; no coronal spines; suborbital ridge double to below rear edge of eye, one continuing to preopercular margin; five spines in lacrimal, including 2-3 extending over upper jaw; absent or very small tentacle above eye; depth of body 2.8-2.9 in SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Rare species. Inhabits deeper reefs. Solitary and cryptic, also found in seaward reefs, mainly at oceanic islands (Ref 90102).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 05 March 2015 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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