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Photo copyright Tim Nicholson.
Long-Spined Scorpion Fish, Taurulus bubalis
Taken off the Isle of Man
Common fish of shallow water. Unlike scorpion fish in other parts of the world, the spines of this inhabitant of the British Isles are not venomous. Appears in a wide range of colours, to mimic the surface on which it is resting. Eats crustaceans and fish in a single lurch. Bottom-dwelling, lack a swim-bladder and move clumsily. Breed in spring and lay clusters of orange eggs in crevices or amongst seaweed. Reach 20 cm long. Distinguished from the similar short-spined scorpion fish by the barbel at the side of its mouth.
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Further Reading
Great British Marine Animals, by Paul Naylor, Deltor (2003)
The Underwater Photographer: Digital and Traditional Techniques, by Martin Edge, Paperback, 424 pages (2006)
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