SCORPION FISH (Scorpaena)

Scorpionfish vary considerably in size, shape and color, but all have some seventeen or eighteen venomous spines among their fins; most are dorsal in location.

Scorpionfish dwell at the bottom of shallow waters, in crevices or seaweed, or beneath debris. They are scattered geographically: one species, the California Sculpin (Scorpaena guttata), is found along the coast from central California to the gulf of California. Similar species are found on the east coast from New England southward.

There are several hundred stings per year due to the California sculpin or related species. Most victims are fishermen who are stung while trying to remove fish from their hooks. Stings usually occur when the fish is handled or stepped on, but some fish may be more active and lunge or butt if approached. There is imme­diate shooting or throbbing .pain following the injury which may involve the entire hand within ten minutes and sometimes the arm and armpit as well. The affected area rapidly becomes pale, then dark blue, then swollen, red and firm. Severe pain lasts three to eight hours, while swelling and tenderness may persist for days. The effects of the sting are generally mild, though vomiting, weakness, headache, fainting and shock can occur. Pain may be excruciating with severe stings.

Treatment and Prevention
As with stingray injuries, hot soaks are preferred treatment. Some authors recommend incision and suction. Since the vast majority of scorpion fish stings result from careless handling of the fish, one should exercise great care and always wear gloves.