What kind of Scorpionfish

[gittannor]

While diving (day) in Dauin, in the Philippines i saw and photographed a small (4cm/1,5inch) black fish on a sandy slope at ap 10 meters. The knowledgeable guides had not seen it before and could not name it. It lookes like a Scorpionfish, but what kind? Would appreciate if someone could give me an answer

 

[donnyb]

Most likely a waspfish, Genus Paracentropogon.
Do you have any additional photos, ones where the dorsal fin is up?

 

[gittannor]

I have two but not so good ones

 

[gittannor]

Waspfish? Doesn't the doral fin orginating on top of the head?

 

[donnyb]

Waspfish? Doesn't the doral fin orginating on top of the head?

You are thinking of the Cockatoo & Spiny waspfish, genus Ablabys.
Also those additional pics pretty much rule out genus Paracentropogon I think...

There are a few others, genus Richardsonichthys and Tetraroge that the dorsal is slightly further back. The fish does resemble a scorpionfish, however those big ridges on the cheek are very common on stingfish and waspfish. I ruled out stingfish, because they have modified pectoral fins, and your fish does not.

I can't find any photo images online for a black waspfish, Tetraroge niger (there are some incorrectly identified ones) but there is a line drawing here:
File:Tetraroge niger Day.png - Wikimedia Commons
This could be your fish?
Gerry Allen & friends describe the black waspfish with "a white snout", but all these fish show large color variations & change color to match surroundings. Also, your description is for a very small individual, so it could be a juvenile.

It could also be a juvenile scorpionfish, like a Painted, but I don't think so.
There's no cirri above the eyes, no tassels around the chin and lower jaw.
I have never been to the Philippines, so it could be something quite localized.
Others may have more input?

 

[gittannor]

Thanks so much for your detailed response. Am inclined to agree with you when I see the illustration.