What is the Red scorpionfish?

The red scorpionfish (Scorpaena scropha), also known  as bigscale scorpionfish, is a salt water fish of the Scorpaenidae family. Inside this large family, which includes over 200 species of fish, the red scorpionfish is the largest and most prized species. It should not be confused with the small red scorpionfish (Scorpaena notata), which is small in size like the black scorpionfish (Scorpaena porcus). The bigscale scorpionfish is characterized by its color and appendices (ridges and spines typical of this family of fish) which are more developed. Red scorpionfish can reach up to about 60 centimeters in length, although on the market they are most commonly found between 20 and 30 centimeters. The spines of the dorsal fin, large and robust, contain the venom glands. It is a "lurking" fish that feeds on smaller prey thanks to its camouflage ability. Although the meat of the scorpionfish is very sought after, at our markets it is present in limited quantities.

 

What are its nutritional properties?

100 grams of red scorpionfish provide 82 calories broken down as follows:

  • 93% Protein
  • 4%lipids
  • 3%carbohydrates

In particular, 100 grams of redfish provide:

  • 79 g of water
  • 19 g protein
  • 0.4 g fat
  • 67 mg of cholesterol
  • 0.6 g of available carbohydrates
  • 0.6 g of soluble sugars
  • 465 mg of potassium
  • 5.5 mg iron
  • 61 mg calcium
  • 21 mg magnesium
  • 1.8 mg zinc
  • 0.5 mg of copper
  • traces of vitamin C

 

When should you not eat scorpionfish?

There are no known interactions between the consumption of scorpionfish and the intake of drugs or other substances.

 

Seasonality of red scorpionfish

Fishing is practiced all year round, but the best time is between January and April.

 

Possible benefits and drawbacks of red scorpionfish

Given the low intake of calories, its flesh is suitable for low-calorie diets. Furthermore, it appears to be very good for your health because it is rich in protein (19 grams per 100), and contains several minerals (in large quantities, particularly potassium, calcium, iron and magnesium). Red scorpionfish is a lean fish (4% lipids) that contains little fat but significant amounts of Omega 3 fatty acids, reducing the levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood, thus protecting the heart and blood vessels. This fish is also rich in minerals.