Fish Index: Lionfish

Showing posts with label Lionfish. Show all posts

Red Lionfish (Pterois volitans)

The Red Lionfish or Pterois volitans is a venomous saltwater fish from the Scorpaenidae family that is found primarily in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This species of Lionfish has been introduced into the Atlantic Ocean and due to the fact that it has no natural predators, it is considered to be an invasive species.

As you can see in the pictures, the Redlionfish has series of venomous dorsal spines that it uses to defend itself from those unlucky enough to get too close. Although the venom from this fish is not considered deadly to humans, it is recommended that you seek medical attention and soak the area in hot water. Those stung can experience difficultly breathing as well as vomiting, headaches and extreme pain. You can learn more about the dangers on the Red Lionfish in the video below.

There are not many predators of the Red Lionfish, but Nassau and Tiger Groupers have been reported to be able to ingest them. This Lionfish will feed on almost anything they can fit their mouths around. These fish will swallow their prey whole after they corner them with their large fins. This species of Lionfish is nocturnal, feeding from dusk till dawn. They can grow to about 15" in length and live for 10 years.

If you have any additional information about the Red Lionfish please leave us a comment below.

Fu Manchu Lionfish (Dendrochirus biocellatus)

The Fu Manchu Lionfish or Dendrochirus biocellatus has without a doubt one of the coolest names of any saltwater fish in the world. They get their name from the two strange tentacle-like protrusions that come out just above their mouths and look like, you guessed it, a Fu Manchu! Many people speculate that these barbels are actually used as lures to bring their prey close enough to strike. You can check out a Fu Manchu Lionfish on the prowl in the video below.

Also known as the Twinspot Lionfish and the Ocellated Lionfish they are quite striking with white, black and red stripes along their bodies. Like most Lionfish, they have fan-like pectoral fins with porcupine-like quills for dorsal fins. Be extremely careful as these "quills" are venomous, and can cause a VERY painful reaction.

Often kept as aquatic pets, the Fu Manchu Lionfish needs an aquarium of 40 gallons or more with plenty of places to hide. In the wild these saltwater fish are found at depths of up to 130' but are also commonly seen around reefs and in lagoons. They are nocturnal and actually spend most of their days hanging upside down waiting for the cover of darkness to feed. Growing to about 4" in maximum length in an aquarium setting the Fu Manchu Lionfish are carnivores that should be fed meaty meals such as live shrimp and feeder fish. Water condition of 72-78° F, pH 8.1-8.4 and sg 1.020-1.025 are acceptable. Do not keep these the Fu Manchu Lionfish with Triggerfish as they will compete too ferociously for food sources.

Antennata Lionfish (Pterois antennata)

Antennata Lionfish or Pterois antennata is just one of the over 20 different species of Lionfish! Also known as the Ragged-finned Firefish or Spotfin Lionfish it has fan-like pectoral fins and very tall porcupine-like dorsal fins. Take great care if ever coming across one of these fish, the spines on the Antennata Lionfish are venomous just like all other Lionfish. Although not deadly to humans, it has been described as much worse than a bee sting. Use extreme caution when cleaning the tank or when rearranging.

This saltwater fish found in the Info-Pacific is a carnivore that prefers a meaty diet of live feeder fish and small shrimp. The Antennata Lionfish should be kept in a fairly large aquarium about 50 gallons with a temperature of 72-78° F and a PH level between 8.1-8.4. This Lionfish can grow to about 7" in length. You should be very careful what fish you put in your tank, because the Lionfish can be aggressive towards other fish. If two or more Antennata Lionfish are put together you should try and make sure there are plenty of hiding spots for them to share. Make sure not to have it with other fish that it can swallow or you might come up with a few missing fish.

The Volitan Lionfish or Pterois volitans is also known as the Turkey Fish or the Butterfly Cod. It is considered to be peaceful, extremely hardy and disease-resistant tank inhabitants that are well suited for the intermediate saltwater hobbyist. You can check out this beautiful fish that inhabits the Indian and Pacific Oceans for yourself in the video below...

There are over 20 different species of Lionfish besides this one. They can live over 15 years and grow up to 15" in length. The Lionfish is a predator that will often herd its prey into a corner and then swallow it whole. In the aquarium a Lionfish should be fed live shrimp and live fish for best results. A tank of about 50 gallons with the following water conditions is acceptable, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 and sg 1.021-1.023.

All Lionfish have venomous spines that are deadly to their prey, but fortunately not to humans. If a human is stung, that person will experience severe pain and possible headaches and vomiting, none the less, this is another very popular aquarium fish. To purchase the Volitan Lion Fish just click the picture directly below...