Caribbean Volitan Lionfish - Pterois volitans - Large

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$94.99
SKU: 251300
Manufacturer: That Fish Place
MPN: 0803-lion

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The Volitan Lionfish (Pterois volitans) is one of the most popular and well known aquarium scorpionfish. It has a white body with reddish-brown or black vertical stripes. Color is highly variable from specimen to specimen. The spiny rays of the fins are very long and flowing. The dorsal fin has seven rigid, venomous spines. Although native to the Indo-Pacific, this species has become an establish and destructive invasive species in the Caribbean, threatening local fish populations.

Lionfish and Scorpionfish are perhaps best known for the venomous spines in their dorsal and pectoral fins. The sharp spines are used by the fish to ward off predators. While special consideration should be given before placing one of these predators in your home aquarium, they are some of the most stunning and desired fish in the aquarium trade. Fish in this family vary greatly in appearance, even between individuals of the same species. Many lionfish and scorpionfish are colored and shaped to blend in with rockwork, sponges, algae and other parts of the reefs they inhabit.

These fish are voracious predators. Most species will wait for potential prey to come close before snatching it for a meal. Some, like the popular Volitan Lionfish, may actively stalk their prey. Lionfish and Scorpionfish can be fed a variety of frozen and prepared meaty foods like shrimp, clams, scallops, krill and other similar foods, but some may need live food like small feeder fish or ghost shrimp to trigger a feeding response. Those that dwell in rock or on the bottom of the aquarium may need to be target fed with tongs or a feeding stick to make sure they get adequate amounts of food.

These fish are generally safe in reef aquariums as they do not eat corals or polyps, but take extra care to know where the fish is located as they may blend in very well with the rocks and corals. Do not keep these fish with shrimp, crabs or fish small enough to be eaten.

The venomous spines of lionfish and other scorpionfish are used exclusively for defense. The potency of the venom varies by species, and effects can range from a strong irritation to very painful or even life-threatening reaction. Most stings in the aquarium happen accidentally, a result of the aquarist making contact with the spines while maintaining the tank. Feeding any animals in the tank by hand can increase the risk of being stung and is not recommended. Always be aware of where your lionfish or scorpionfish is when working in your aquarium, and seek medical attention immediately if a sting should occur.

This lionfish has been collected from the waters of the Caribbean Sea. Lionfish are not native to this area and have become an invasive species and a risk to other animals and people in the area. By collecting lionfish from this area, it saves them from being hunted and exterminated and may eventually help lessen both their impact in the Caribbean and collection stress of native populations in the Indo-Pacific. You can read more about Volitan Lionfish in the Caribbean in articles from our marine biologists in That Fish Blog.

Specifications

Specifications
Common NameCaribbean Volitan Lionfish - Large
Scientific NamePterois volitans
DifficultyEasy to Moderate
Reef SafeYes
Invert SafeNo
Community SafeYes, with larger fish only
Max Size (in inches)15
Min Tank Size (in gallons)75
OriginCaribbean (not native, invasive), Indo-Pacific
Specific Gravity Range1.020-1.024
pH Range8.0-8.4
DietCarnivore
Temperature Range75-82
VenomousYes (spines)

State Restrictions
Alaska
Armed Forces Americas
Armed Forces Europe
Armed Forces Pacific
California
Florida
Hawaii
New York
Puerto Rico

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