Red Lionfish

This species is known as Red Lionfish and the correct latin name is Pterois volitans. The family that this fish belongs to is called the Scorpion family. (e) Origin of this species is Pacific Ocean. (e)

Character and suggestions regarding care

Aggressive and venemous fish. It’s fins may cause allergic reactions.

Red Lionfish can grow up to 38 cm what is approximately 14 inches. In general, 1 specimen requires at least 4560cm² of water surface which is approximately 706 square inch. It is recommended to raise this species in fish tanks that are large. (e) Medium aquariums have at least 113 Litres (30 US Gallons). Large aquariums have at least 265 Litres (70 US Gallons). Capacity of very large aquariums is at least 700 Litres (185 US Gallons).

It is easy to keep the Red Lionfish. (e) The specific gravity (SG) should be between 1,020 and 1,025, the temperature between 23°C (73.4°F) and 26°C (78.8°F). The pH level should be stable, varying between 8.0 and 8.3 which is usual for marine fish.

This fish should be kept alone in a tank. Otherwise it may use it’s spines with venom against other fish because they are territorial and will protect their territory. Especially the males are aggressive during the mating season. In the aquarium, there should be caves and hiding places.

A carnivore. Eats smaller fishes, shrimp and crabs. But do not feed them with freshwater feeder fish.



















Thanks to Tamri Shavi for the picture.

Thanks to Kenneth Leonard for the pictures. Copyright Ken Leonard.

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Related fish profiles in the database

• Dendrochirus Biocellatus (Twospot Turkeyfish, Fu Manchu Lionfish)
• Dendrochirus Brachypterus (Shortfin Turkeyfish)
• Pterois Radiata (Radiata Lionfish, Radial Firefish)
• Rhinopias Frondosa (Weedy Scorpionfish, Popeyed Scorpionfish)
• Taenianotus Triacanthus (Leaf Scorpionfish)

Recommended reading

• Saltwater aquarium heater
• Saltwater aquarium lights
• Saltwater aquarium filters
• Saltwater tank aeration
• Marine fish diseases
• Protein Simmers in the Saltwater Tank
• Setting up a Saltwater Tank
• Saltwater Fish Tanks
• Cleaner Shrimp
• Pajama Cardinals

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