Lionfish

June 2, 2025

Lionfish:

Red Lionfish

(Pterois volitans )

With venomous spines and dramatic stripes, the Red Lionfish is both a beauty and a threat. Invasive in the Atlantic, it devours native fish unchecked. Handle with care—its sting is painful but rarely fatal to humans.

With venomous spines and dramatic stripes, the Red Lionfish is both a beauty and a threat. Invasive in the Atlantic, it devours native fish unchecked. Handle with care—its sting is painful but rarely fatal to humans.

Care & Compatibility

Sizes Available

Habitat

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Red Lionfish inhabit coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and lagoons at depths of 2-50 meters. They prefer areas with plenty of hiding spots and moderate water flow.

Physical Characteristics

Red Lionfish are carnivorous predators, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and shrimp. In captivity, they require a protein-rich diet including frozen silversides, shrimp, and marine fish.

Physical Characteristics
  • Adult size: 30-35 cm
  • Elaborate, fan-like pectoral fins
  • Red, white, and black striped pattern
  • Venomous spines (handle with extreme caution)
  • Distinctive feathery fin rays
Aquarium Requirements
  • Minimum tank size: 200 liters
  • Water temperature: 24-27°C
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Requires careful handling due to venomous spines
  • Should not be kept with small fish that can fit in their mouth

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