Dwarf Lionfish (Dendrochirus brachypterus) Care Guide

A compact lionfish species reaching only 17 cm, making it suitable for smaller marine setups compared to its larger relatives.

Overview

Dendrochirus brachypterus is a species in the family Scorpaenidae. A compact lionfish species reaching only 17 cm, making it suitable for smaller marine setups compared to its larger relatives. Features feathery pectoral fins and variable coloration from reddish-brown to tan. Venomous spines require careful handling. A stealthy ambush predator that perches on rocks and waits for prey to wander close.

Taxonomy

Family: Scorpaenidae
Genus: Dendrochirus
Scientific name: Dendrochirus brachypterus
Other names: Fuzzy Dwarf Lionfish, Shortfin Lionfish
Origin: Indo-Pacific

Habitat

Dendrochirus brachypterus is a small lionfish of shallow Indo-Pacific reefs and seagrass. A slow ambush predator of shrimp and small fish, it has venomous dorsal spines. Its small size suits it to dedicated predator systems where it will not eat tankmates it cannot swallow.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 200 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
KH: 8-12 dKH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 12-17 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: every 2 days. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Position in tank: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Large Clownfish, Tangs, Hawkfish, Large Gobies
Avoid with: Small Fish, Small Shrimp, Ornamental Shrimp

Reef compatibility

Generally classified as reef-safe with caution: may disturb other sessile invertebrates, sting neighbouring corals or prey on small ornamental shrimps, so placement and tankmates need consideration.

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: advanced