Saddleback Sculpin
NameSaddleback Sculpin
Scientific NameScorpaenodes scaber
Common NamesSaddleback Sculpin, Pygmy Scorpionfish, Weedy Scorpionfish, Dwarf Scorpionfish
FamilyScorpaenidae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa, Hawaii
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)30
Max Size (Inches)4
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarger Angelfish, Tangs, Triggerfish (larger species), Puffers (larger species), Hawkfish (larger species)
Description
The Saddleback Sculpin, also known as Pygmy Scorpionfish, is a small, cryptic marine fish with vibrant, mottled patterns of red, blue, and green, allowing it to camouflage effectively. It is a predatory ambush hunter equipped with venomous spines, requiring careful handling. This species is best kept in a species-specific tank or with larger, robust tankmates.
