Origin: Native to sub-tropical and tropical regions from southern Japan to the east coast of Australia.

Life Span: With over 15 different species (most common being Pterois Volitans), life span is difficult to predict but averages up to 15 years in the wild.

Size: 11-15 inches depending on species

 

Habits: Mostly solitary and not very active swimmers, lionfish often attack their meal in one swift motion.  Make sure to handle carefully since the dorsal spines are venomous and can feel like a strong bee sting.  Some people may be allergic to the venom so always take precautions.

Feeding: Food may be flaked, dried, frozen or live.  Avoid feeding only one type of food exclusively since it would not be nutritionally complete. Lionfish feed most actively from 7:00-11:00 A.M., with decreased feeding throughout the afternoon.
 

Housing: Two gallons or more per fish inch is recommended for saltwater aquariums with a minimum of 30 gallons. Lionfish require more space and better water quality than freshwater fish. Provide your lionfish with rocks, coral and plants. Water temperature should range from 72-82 degrees F.

Northwest Pet Magazine offers in-depth articles that inform, entertain and inspire those who love four-legged friends. Our goal is to provide tips and information concerning pets: health, food, comfort, toys, treats, containment, training and much more!

 

 

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