Pterois volitans
Due to variations within species, your item may not look
identical to the image provided. Approximate size range may also vary between
individual specimen
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Color Form: Black, Red,
White
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Compatible: With
Caution
Water Conditions: 72-78?
F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.021-1.023
Max. Size: 1' 3"
Venomous: Yes
Origin: Caribbean, Indonesia,
Vanuatu
Family: Scorpaenidae
The Volitan Lionfish is also known as the, Common
Lionfish, Red Lionfish, Turkeyfish and Butterfly Cod. It?s coloration can vary
depending on the age and maturity of the fish, displaying a red to burgundy,
white, and brown to black vertical stripes along the length of the body. It
also has large, fan-like pectoral fins, and tall, banded spines on the dorsal
fin. The Volitan Lionfish is very similar to the Miles Lionfish with the
exception of their origin as the Miles Lionfish species is restricted to the
Indian Ocean: Red Sea, South Africa, and east to Sumatra. The Volitain Lionfish
differs from the visually similar Miles Lionfish, as Miles have fewer spines on
its dorsal and anal fins.
The spines on the dorsal, pelvic, and anal fins are
venomous, and used solely for defense. If stung, the affect is similar to a bee
sting, only stronger. Lionfish venom contains proteins that are broken up by
heat, which prevent them from entering the bloodstream. After a sting, remove
any broken spines lodged in the wound, and immediately immerse the affected
area in the hottest water you can stand (not scalding), for 30 minutes,
followed by medical attention. For individuals sensitive to stings, its
advisable to seek medical attention immediately.
The Volitan Lionfish can grow rapidly to an adult size of
15 inches, and when full grown these fishes should be housed in a 120 gallon or
larger aquarium with numerous hiding places. It will hide while acclimating to
its new home, but then is generally found out in the open. It may eat smaller
fish, shrimp, and other crustaceans in the tank.
When first introduced into the aquarium, live saltwater
feeder shrimp should be used to entice this fish to eat. Its diet should
include meaty foods such as live shrimp, live fish, and occasionally crustacean
flesh. Once fully settled into the aquarium, with some diligence and patience,
Volitan Lionfish can convert over to consuming a prepared diet consisting of
chunks of fresh, uncooked table shrimp, frozen silversides, and pieces of
frozen squid.