Two-Lined Lionfish (Dendrochirus biocellaris)

Fish in the family Scorpaenidae. Moderate care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameDendrochirus biocellaris

FamilyScorpaenidae

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size4 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025

Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

The Two-Lined Lionfish is a small, ornate scorpionfish with a compressed body and elaborate fan-like pectoral fins featuring bold striping and venomous spines. The fish displays a cream to tan body color with two prominent dark lines running along the sides, and the pectoral and dorsal fins are banded with dark brown or black markings. The head and body are stocky with a slightly upturned mouth.

Diet and feeding

Feed small live fish (like silversides or feeder fish), frozen shrimp, and other meaty prey. In captivity, they typically accept quarantine-trained prepared frozen foods. Feed 1–2 times daily.

Difficulty and care for the Two-Lined Lionfish

Advanced - Requires experienced care due to sensitive nature specific habitat needs or complex dietary requirements. Best for expert aquarists.

Common health issues

Parasitic infections, bacterial infections from spine injuries, starvation (if refuses to eat), injury from tank mates

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and extending through Southeast Asia to the Great Barrier Reef and Hawaii.

Log Two-Lined Lionfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Two-Lined Lionfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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