239. Cockatoo Waspfish (Ablabys taenianotus)

Subject: 

A Cockatoo Waspfish (Ablabys taenianotus) hops among the rubble of an Indonesian shallow reef.

The Cockatoo Waspfish is one of the smaller members of the Scorpionfish family (Scorpaenidae). This small scorpaenoid fish can grow to a total length of approximately 15 cm/6 inches. It is one of the five species that belong to the genus Ablabys. Despite its modest size, the Cockatoo Waspfish’s unique appearance and behaviour make it a fascinating species for underwater enthusiasts, marine biologists and underwater videographers alike.

With its laterally compressed body and large dorsal fin, which rises prominently from its head and extends to the start of the caudal fin (tail fin), the Cockatoo Waspfish is sometimes mistaken for the Scorpion Leaffish (Taenianotus triacanthus), another member of the Scorpaenidae family. The resemblance lies in their shared body shape and fin structure, but the Cockatoo Waspfish has distinct characteristics that set it apart. Its name derives from the dorsal fin on its head, which resembles the crest of a cockatoo—a parrot belonging to the family Cacatuidae. This crest-like fin gives the fish a striking and somewhat whimsical appearance.

One of the defining traits of the Cockatoo Waspfish is its lack of a swim bladder, an organ most fish use to control buoyancy. Without this adaptation, the Cockatoo Waspfish is a poor swimmer. Coupled with its large dorsal fin, which catches even the smallest water currents, this species moves in a clumsy, hopping fashion.

Unlike the Scorpion Leaffish, which primarily inhabits vibrant coral reefs, the Cockatoo Waspfish prefers more subdued habitats, such as sandy, silty, or rubble-strewn bottoms, often covered with seagrass. It thrives in shallow environments, including estuaries and bays, across the eastern Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean. However, it is often confused with another waspfish species from the western Indian Ocean: the Redskinfish (Ablabys binotatus).

As a venomous fish, the Cockatoo Waspfish is aptly named. It is an ambush predator that feeds on small crustaceans venturing across the ocean floor. By mimicking the shape and swaying movements of a dead leaf, this slow swimmer can stealthily approach its prey without being detected. Its fins are equipped with spines connected to venom glands, offering both defence and offensive capabilities. Intriguingly, its scientific name is derived from the Greek word ablabes, meaning “harmless,” a seemingly ironic choice given its venomous nature. However, like wasps, it is likely harmless as long as it is left undisturbed.

Technique: 

Filming this little fish proved to be quite challenging. As it darted between rocks and corals, positioning the underwater camera, housed in its large casing, was difficult on the uneven seabed. I had to wait patiently for the fish to move into a spot where I could frame the shot. Each time I thought I had achieved the perfect angle, the Scorpaenoid would change direction, requiring me to reposition the camera repeatedly.

On that particular dive, I captured numerous shots, but the majority were unsuitable for inclusion in an underwater video. In my experience, it is often better to move on and search for a more cooperative subject. Bottom time during a dive is limited by your gas supply and non-decompression limits. Spending excessive time on an uncooperative subject can result in frustration. If you dive frequently, another opportunity to photograph or film your desired subject will eventually present itself.

Filming location:

This short underwater videoclip has been filmed in Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩

Watch it on YouTube:

You can watch it directly on YouTube by clicking the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H17k3vhKgjM

239. Cockatoo Waspfish (Ablabys taenianotus)

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