Scorpaenoidea

Scorpaenoidea is a superfamily of ray-finned fishes belonging to the order Scorpaeniformes. These fish are characterized by their bony heads, often with spines and ridges, and a generally compressed body shape. They are predominantly marine, inhabiting a wide range of environments from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea, and are found in all the world's oceans. The diet of scorpaenoids varies but often includes crustaceans, mollusks, and smaller fish.

The superfamily Scorpaenoidea encompasses several families, including Scorpaenidae (scorpionfishes and rockfishes), Sebastidae, Aploactinidae, and Caracanthidae, among others. Scorpionfishes, arguably the most well-known members, are famous for their venomous spines, which can deliver a painful sting to predators and humans. Many species exhibit remarkable camouflage, blending seamlessly with their surroundings on rocky reefs or the seabed.

Reproduction in Scorpaenoidea is diverse, with some species being oviparous (laying eggs) and others viviparous (giving birth to live young). The larval stages are often planktonic, drifting in the water column before settling to the benthos. Due to their cryptic nature and sometimes venomous defenses, scorpaenoids are not typically targeted by commercial fisheries, though some species, like rockfishes, are important for recreational fishing and aquaculture in certain regions. Their ecological role often involves predation on invertebrates and smaller fish, contributing to the balance of marine ecosystems.