Least Concern· population trend unknown· assessed 2016

Weedy scorpionfish (Rhinopias)

Rhinopias frondosa

Sighting evidence at Hairball, Lembeh Strait

The weedy scorpionfish is the most sought-after macro subject in Lembeh and Hairball is one of only a handful of sites globally where a single dive reliably produces a sighting. Its extraordinary camouflage involves skin filaments and chromatic adaptability: individuals match the colour of their surrounding algae, switching gradually as they move across substrates. Despite toxic dorsal spines it is a sluggish ambush predator, remaining stationary for hours.

Evidence at this site

No confirmed records on file at this site

Weedy scorpionfish (Rhinopias) is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.

How is this calculated?

Sighting evidence is compiled from iNaturalist observation records within a set proximity radius, filtered for quality-grade observations. “Last confirmed” is the date of the most recent research-grade record. Record count covers a rolling 24-month window. Confidence reflects record count, recency, and consistency of seasonal signal.