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Scorpionfish. The most commonly seen of this family (Scorpaenidae) are the lionfishes (Pterois and Dendrochirus). During the day these lavishly colored fish can be seen perching on coral heads. Perhaps because of their poisonous fin rays, they are relatively unperturbed by the presence of divers.

Lionfishes feed mainly at night on shrimps and small fishes. They use their elaborate fins to shepherd their prey into a suitable position, whereupon they shoot forward and inhale it whole into their large mouths.

Scorpionfish are less commonly seen, chiefly because they are so well camouflagued. Covered with folds and flaps of skin, they blend right in with the algae and other growths.

The scorpionfishes and lion-fishes have a row of poisonous spines along their backs. So, despite their usually benign behavior these fish should be treated with some respect. More than one underwater photographer has been stuck by a lionfish while trying to encourage it into position for that perfect photograph. Lionfish poison is not strong enough to kill an adult, but it will certainly give you many hours of acute pain.