Western Red Scorpioncod

This shot was taken last week at the 'Playground' dive site which is located just north of Fremantle and about 3-4 kilometres off the coast. It is 27 metres deep. The Western Red Scorpioncod is fairly common but very well camouflaged and often missed as it looks a dull brown colour to the naked eyed under water. The flashgun brings out the real colour. They like to lurk on top of sponges and wait for prey to pass. The spines are venomous and care must be take when diving on the reefs as it is easy to miss seeing one and almost place a hand on it.