Lacy Scorpionfish

The Lacy Scorpionfish is one of the rarest and most coveted marine fish in the aquarium hobby, belonging to the legendary Rhinopias genus that represents the pinnacle of scorpionfish collecting. This extraordinary species features deeply incised, lace-like skin appendages covering its entire body, creating an appearance that resembles a piece of tattered, ornate fabric draped over a fish-shaped frame. The coloration ranges from deep purple and lavender to red, pink, yellow, and white, with each individual displaying a unique pattern and hue.

In the wild, Rhinopias aphanes is found exclusively in the Western Pacific, primarily around Papua New Guinea and the Coral Sea region of Australia. It inhabits rubble slopes and soft coral areas at depths of 10 to 40 meters, where its elaborate skin appendages and variable coloration provide superb camouflage among algae, soft corals, and sponge-encrusted rubble. Like other scorpionfish, it is a sit-and-wait ambush predator, remaining motionless until small fish or shrimp venture within striking range.

In the aquarium, the Lacy Scorpionfish is the ultimate trophy fish for dedicated predator-fish enthusiasts. Specimens are exceptionally rare in the trade and command prices of several thousand dollars when available. Despite the price, they are surprisingly adaptable to captive life, readily accepting frozen foods once acclimated. They are venomous, and their spines should be treated with great respect. A dedicated species tank or predator community of 75 gallons or more is appropriate for this compact but spectacular scorpionfish.