Macro
Weedy scorpionfish (Rhinopias)
Rhinopias frondosa
An ornate, weed-like scorpionfish that sways in place to mimic drifting algae and sheds its skin to stay clean. A high-priority target for macro photographers and among the harder critters to find. Colours span red, purple, yellow and brown.
- Max size
- ~23cm
- Habitat
- Rubble and reef edges on slopes
Best places to dive with Weedy scorpionfish (Rhinopias)
| Month | Likelihood |
|---|---|
| January | occasional |
| February | occasional |
| March | occasional |
| April | occasional |
| May | occasional |
| June | occasional |
| July | occasional |
| August | occasional |
| September | occasional |
| October | occasional |
| November | occasional |
| December | occasional |
Found on muck sites like Mucky Mosque throughout the diving season; presence varies dive to dive and depends on guides knowing current individuals.
| Month | Likelihood |
|---|---|
| January | rare |
| February | rare |
| March | rare |
| April | rare |
| May | rare |
| June | rare |
| July | rare |
| August | rare |
| September | rare |
| October | rare |
| November | rare |
| December | rare |
Occasionally found in Anilao and a top target for photographers, but a genuinely lucky, scarce sighting.
| Month | Likelihood |
|---|---|
| January | rare |
| February | rare |
| March | rare |
| April | rare |
| May | rare |
| June | rare |
| July | rare |
| August | rare |
| September | rare |
| October | rare |
| November | rare |
| December | rare |
A sought-after but unpredictable find; sometimes present at sites like Nudi Falls for days, then absent for weeks.
Sources & last checked
Checked July 2026
This is a researched draft, not yet human-verified. The seasonality and logistics are drawn from the sources below — confirm specifics (permits, fees, closures) with an operator before you book.
- Lembeh Strait Diving, Sulawesi — Dive The World