More info
Common Name: Radiata Lionfish, Clearfin Lionfish
Scientific Name: Pterois radiata
Order: Scorpaeniformes — Family: Scorpaenidae (Scorpionfishes)
Geographical Distribution: Indo-Pacific region — from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific, including the Maldives, Indonesia, and northern Australia.
Life Expectancy: Approximately 10 years in captivity with proper care
Maximum Adult Size: Up to 23 cm (9 inches)
pH: 8.1 to 8.4 — Water Hardness: 8 to 12 dKH
Temperature: 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F)
Minimum Aquarium Volume: 150 liters (approximately 40 gallons)
Reef Safe Compatibility: No. Predatory and venomous, can harm smaller fish and invertebrates.
Behavior and Compatibility:
Generally peaceful toward larger tank mates but predatory and territorial. Not suitable for reef tanks with small fish or invertebrates. Best kept with similarly sized or larger species. Use caution when handling due to venomous spines.
Diet:
Carnivorous. Feeds on small fish and crustaceans in the wild. In captivity, accepts live or frozen meaty foods such as shrimp, krill, and small fish. Regular feeding is necessary to maintain health.
Reproduction:
Oviparous. Spawning involves the release of eggs and sperm into the water column. Rarely bred in captivity due to complex requirements.
Sexual Dimorphism:
No obvious external sexual dimorphism; males and females appear similar.
Natural Habitat and Biotope:
Found in coral reefs and rocky substrates, usually at depths ranging from 1 to 25 meters. Prefers sheltered lagoons and reef slopes.
Etymology:
The genus name Pterois is derived from the Greek “pteron” meaning “wing,” referring to the large, wing-like pectoral fins. The species name radiata means “radiated” or “spoked,” describing the striped pattern of the fins and body.