Scorpaeniformes, often called “mail-cheeked fishes,” are an order of bony fishes known for their spiny, armored heads and bodies, often equipped with venomous spines for defense. This diverse group includes well-known families such as scorpionfish, lionfish, and stonefish, many of which are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly into rocky reefs or sandy ocean floors. Found primarily in marine environments, though some inhabit brackish or freshwater, Scorpaeniformes are distributed worldwide, particularly in tropical and temperate regions. They are ambush predators, using their cryptic appearance to remain unnoticed as they lie in wait for unsuspecting prey like small fish or crustaceans. While many species are prized in aquarium trade or consumed as food, others, like the venomous stonefish, pose risks to humans, making them both fascinating and formidable inhabitants of the aquatic world.