Volitan Lionfish

Volitan Lionfish

Pterois volitans

Also known as: Red Lionfish

🧂 Saltwater ⚡ Semi-aggressive 🟡 Moderate 🥩 Carnivore Not Reef Safe

Dramatic, fan-like pectoral fins with venomous spines. Slow-moving ambush predator that's surprisingly personable.

Tank Size

75 gal
minimum (125+ preferred)

Temperature

74–82°F
23–28°C

pH Range

8–8.4
water acidity

Max Size

15"
38.1 cm

Lifespan

10–15 years
typical in captivity

Swim Level

All
preferred zone

Care Notes

VENOMOUS spines — handle with extreme caution. Will eat any fish that fits in its large mouth. FOWLR tank only.

Feeding

Frozen silversides, shrimp, and other meaty foods. Wean off live food onto frozen.

Compatible Tank Mates

None identified.

Use Caution With

Blue Tang 12" Yellow Tang 8" Kole Tang 7" Scopas Tang 8" Naso Tang 18" Convict Tang 8" Powder Brown Tang 8" Blonde Naso Tang 16" Mimic Tang 10" Chevron Tang 10" Orange Shoulder Tang 14" Desjardin's Sailfin Tang 16"

Incompatible With

Ocellaris Clownfish 3" True Percula Clownfish 3" Maroon Clownfish 6" Blue Green Chromis 3" Yellowtail Damselfish 2.5" Blue Devil Damselfish 3" Powder Blue Tang 9" Clarkii Clownfish 5" Tomato Clownfish 5" Achilles Tang 10" Purple Tang 10" Three Stripe Damselfish 3"

Check Compatibility

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