Zebra Lionfish (Dendrochirus zebra)
Fish in the family Scorpaenidae. Hard care. Not Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Zebra Lionfish displays a distinctive striped pattern with alternating reddish-brown and white vertical bands covering its body. It has venomous spines along its dorsal, anal, and pectoral fins arranged in elaborate fan-like formations, and possesses a relatively squat, deep body profile with a large head and expansive mouth.
Diet and feeding
Feed live or frozen small fish (silversides, smelt, small feeder fish) 2-3 times weekly. Once acclimated, some specimens may accept pre-killed or frozen food. Avoid feeding fish too small, which may be swallowed whole.
Difficulty and care for the Zebra Lionfish
The Zebra Lionfish is challenging for most hobbyists due to its specific dietary requirements (live/frozen small fish), slow metabolism requiring infrequent feeding, and its highly venomous spines which pose a hazard during tank maintenance. Only experienced aquarists should attempt this species.
Common health issues
Fin rot, parasitic infections, poor appetite in captivity, venomous spine punctures (to aquarist).
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea to Hawaii and the Great Barrier Reef. Found in tropical coral reef environments at depths ranging from shallow reefs to approximately 100 meters.
Log Zebra 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 Zebra Lionfish alongside everything else in your reef.
