Source: Wikimedia Commons
Red Lionfish
IntermediatePterois volitans
The classic lionfish with red-brown and white bands, fan-like pectoral fins and long dorsal spines. The dorsal, pelvic and anal spines are venomous, and it is a predator reaching 45.7cm.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
22〜26℃
Lifespan
About 10 years
Size
Up to 45.7cm
Diet
Frozen shrimp, fish flesh, squid (live shrimp to start feeding)
About
The Red Lionfish (Pterois volitans) is a scorpaenid ranging from the Cocos Islands and Western Australia in the eastern Indian Ocean to the Marquesas, north to southern Japan and south to Lord Howe Island; from the Red Sea to Sumatra it is replaced by the similar P. miles. It lives from turbid inshore waters to lagoons and seaward reefs down to 55m, resting head-down in shelter by day and hunting at night, herding small fish and shrimp with its broad pectoral fins before engulfing them. The dorsal, pelvic and anal spines carry defensive venom that causes intense pain. Aquarium releases have made it an invasive species in the western Atlantic. Keep at 22-26C, pH 8.1-8.4 and SG 1.020-1.025 in 450L or more with hiding places. Start with live shrimp and convert to frozen foods. It eats any fish or crustacean that fits in its mouth but leaves corals alone. It grows fast and fouls water, so allow generous equipment. IUCN: Least Concern.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Red Lionfish
The Red Lionfish lives About 10 years.
Maximum 45.7cm; lifespan about 10 years.
Size of the Red Lionfish
The Red Lionfish grows to Up to 45.7cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Red Lionfish
The ideal temperature for the Red Lionfish is 22〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Indo-Pacific (Western Australia to the Marquesas, north to southern Japan, south to Lord Howe Island)
Care Specifications
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- Water Temp.
- 22–26℃
- Specific Gravity
- 1.02–1.025
- Min. Tank
- 450 L
Semi-aggressiveWith caution
Sources: LiveAquaria / FishBase
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Red Lionfish Listings
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