UK Seas

Discover the wonderful sea creatures that inhabit the UK seas and shores

UK seas is a guide to the fauna and flora found around UK coasts. While the majority of species are marine, some species are included that are regularly encountered on land by the coast, so you’ll find descriptions of non-marine species such as reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants as well.

Short-spined sea scorpion

Myoxocephalus scorpius

Type

Fish

Description

A dweller of rockpools with large eyes, spiny gill covers, and dappled, camouflaged colours which it can change chameleon-like. Resembles a mini “angler fish”.

Rapidly lunges at prey with a huge open mouth.

Location

Amongst rocks and weeds, in pools on the lower shore. You need a keen eye!

Habitat

Rocky shore, Lower shore, Rock pools, Middle shore