Volitan Lionfish, Colored (Pterois volitans)

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

Quick facts

Scientific namePterois volitans

FamilyScorpaenidae

Care levelExpert

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentAggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size15 in

Minimum tank size125 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025

Feeding schedule1-2 times daily

Appearance

A striking fish with fan-like pectoral fins featuring bold red, brown, and white banding. The body is elongated with venomous spines in the dorsal, pectoral, and anal fins, and a distinctive large mouth adapted for ambush predation.

Diet and feeding

Feed live or recently thawed frozen small fish (silversides, small mullet) and crustaceans. They are ambush predators and may not accept prepared foods readily. Feed juveniles 2–3 times weekly; adults 1–2 times weekly.

Difficulty and care for the Volitan Lionfish, Colored

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea to Hawaii and Australia, including coral reef environments throughout the tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Log Volitan Lionfish, Colored 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 Volitan Lionfish, Colored alongside everything else in your reef.

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