Stonefish or Scorpionfish?
First, the disclaimer: I am not a trained marine biologist or taxonomist. I have learned from one of the best, however, in that I have taken course work and participated in research projects with Dr. Kate Moots, one of the few remaining classically-trained marine biologists in the world. In fact, Kate is likely one of the foremost experts (perhaps THE foremost expert) on fish at the transition zone between the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea (the demarcation of which passes right through Saipan). Also, I tend to spend more time than I can justify looking up the fish I see (a quirk that I can also partially thank Dr. Moots for developing), and my diving friends have found me to be a reasonably knowledgeable "go to" person when they want to know what types of fishes they have seen. As you look through this album, if you have any questions, please ask them in the Comments area below, and then check back later for my responses. I'll do my best to usually answer within a day or two. If you have a question, chances are someone else may benefit from you asking it. Please use language suitable for family viewing in all your comments (or your comment will be deleted pronto). You may also email me at optimimagery@gmail.com. As the name suggests, this album deals with distinguishing between two very often-confused types of fishes, the scorpionfish and the stonefish. I hope that you enjoy learning about their differences and how to tell them apart.
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Two of the more fascinating types of fishes around Saipan are the scorpionfish and the stonefish. Interestingly, even though the former outnumber the latter by many times, many of the locals incorrectly use the term "stonefish" to refer to any individual of either type. Neither will attack or threaten a person. However, both are poisonous if a careless person accidentally steps on one or brushes up against one and gets stung by any of the very sharp spines. Indeed, the stonefish has the most deadly marine fish venom known, and has been known to result in loss of limbs and occasional death. Scorpionfish venom, while much less toxic, could still be lethal to a person who happens to be allergic.
