Yellowspotted dwarf scorpionfish (Sebastapistes Cyanostigma)

The Yellowspotted Dwarf Scorpionfish is a master of camouflage, renowned for its mottled brown body accented with distinctive yellow spots that allow it to blend seamlessly into its reef surroundings. This small, ambush predator uses its cryptic coloration to surprise prey and is a fascinating addition for advanced aquarists. While its venomous spines require cautious handling, its unique beauty and natural behavior make it a prized species for specialized setups.

Care Information
Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches.
Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum; requires a mature, spacious tank with plenty of live rock, crevices, and a fine sandy substrate to mimic its natural reef habitat.
Diet: Carnivorous; in the wild, it preys on small crustaceans and fish. In captivity, it thrives on a varied diet of live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small pieces of seafood.
Water Temp: 72-78°F.
Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
Aggression: Generally solitary and non-aggressive toward similarly sized species; however, its ambush predatory nature means it may target very small invertebrates or shrimp.
Skill Level: Advanced; requires stable, pristine water conditions and careful feeding practices.
Reef Compatibility: With caution; while its camouflage minimizes disturbance to corals, its predatory habits mean it could consume very small invertebrates if available.

Special Feature – Camouflage & Natural Ambush
The Yellowspotted Dwarf Scorpionfish is especially notable for its natural camouflage—its mottled brown coloration combined with vibrant yellow spots makes it nearly invisible against the reef. This, coupled with its patient, ambush predation style, offers aquarists a fascinating glimpse into natural reef behavior.

Compatibility
Best housed in a species-specific or carefully managed community tank with other larger, non-aggressive species. Avoid pairing it with very small invertebrates or shrimp that might be mistaken for prey.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: Exhibits a mottled brown base with eye-catching yellow spots scattered across its body, enhancing its camouflage in rocky reef habitats.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, this species inhabits coral reef zones and rocky areas where it hides among crevices and live rock.
• Tank Setup: Mimic its natural environment with abundant live rock, ample hiding spots, and a fine sandy substrate in a mature, stable aquarium.