Weedy Scorpionfish (Rhinopias frondosa)

Fish in the family Scorpaenidae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameRhinopias frondosa

FamilyScorpaenidae

Also known asWeedy Scorpionfish, Weedy Rhinopias

Care levelExpert

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size10 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025

Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Rhinopias frondosa is a small, ornate scorpionfish with elaborate leaf-like appendages and fronds covering its head and body. Its coloration ranges from tan and brown to reddish tones, often with mottled patterning that provides excellent camouflage among coral and rubble.

Diet and feeding

Feed small live or frozen meaty foods including frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and small pieces of fish flesh. Feed 2-3 times daily with amounts the fish can consume in a few minutes. Some individuals may require live prey initially.

Difficulty and care for the Weedy Scorpionfish

Expert - The ultimate collector predator fish. Very rare and expensive. Best suited for expert aquarists only.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial infections, Parasitic infestations

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region from Indonesia and the Philippines to the Great Barrier Reef and beyond, typically found in tropical coral reef environments.

Keeper notes

The ultimate collector predator fish. Very rare and expensive. Sedentary ambush predator. Will eat small fish.

Log Weedy Scorpionfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Weedy Scorpionfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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