Blackfoot Firefish
Parapterois heterura
- Group: Other
- Typical depth: 40–300 m
- Max size: 38 cm
- For divers: dangerous
- IUCN status: LC
A lionfish relative of sheltered coastal bays, the blackfoot firefish settles on fine sand and mud and can half bury itself by day, easily missed. Its broad pectoral fins fan out to startle predators and to herd prey into a corner when hunting. Venom in its spines makes it a fish to admire and not handle, and it ranges down to about 300 metres.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Perciformes › Scorpaenidae › Parapterois
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 277609.
FAQ
- How deep does the Blackfoot Firefish live?
- The Blackfoot Firefish (Parapterois heterura) is typically found at 40–300 m.
- Is the Blackfoot Firefish dangerous to divers?
- The Blackfoot Firefish can be dangerous; divers should keep their distance.
- How big does the Blackfoot Firefish get?
- The Blackfoot Firefish grows to about 38 cm.