Radial Lionfish (Pterois radiata) Care Guide

Pterois radiata is an Indo-Pacific lionfish reaching about 24 cm. It is nocturnal, venomous, and feeds almost exclusively on crabs and shrimps.

Overview

Pterois radiata, the radial or clearfin lionfish, is a member of the family Scorpaenidae. FishBase records a maximum length of 24 cm. It has a red body marked with thin white radiating lines and largely translucent, lacy fins. FishBase notes it is a generally uncommon species.

Taxonomy

Family: Scorpaenidae
Genus: Pterois
Scientific name: Pterois radiata
Common synonyms: Pteropterus radiatus (Cuvier, 1829), used by FishBase

Habitat

FishBase reports an Indo-Pacific range from the Red Sea to Sodwana Bay (South Africa) and east to the Society Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to New Caledonia. It occurs on lagoon and seaward reefs, preferring rocky reefs and avoiding stony corals, at depths of about 1 to 30 m, hiding under ledges by day.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 500 L (132 gal)
Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
pH: 8.1-8.4
GH: 8-12 °dGH
Lifespan: 8-18 years

Diet

This lionfish is a carnivore. FishBase states it feeds almost exclusively on small crabs and shrimps. In captivity it can be a difficult eater that may at first accept only live shrimp.

Compatibility

The species is solitary and primarily nocturnal, sheltering in crevices and small caves by day and emerging at night to hunt. The verified record advises against small fish (which may be eaten), ornamental shrimp and aggressive triggers, and pairs it with large, robust tankmates.

Venom

Pterois radiata is venomous and, according to FishBase, capable of inflicting a painful sting through its dorsal and anal fin spines. Handling requires caution.

Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2015). FishBase rates fishing vulnerability as low.