Mombasa Lionfish (Pterois mombasae)

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Mombasa Lionfish

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Mombasa Lionfish

Pterois mombasae

208 Litres (55 US G.)

15.2-17.8cm (6-7 ")

pH

8.2 - 8.4

22 -28 °C (71.6-82.4°F)

8-12 °d

1:1 M:F

Carnivore
Live Foods
Other (See article)

8-15 years

Family

Scorpaenidae



Additional names

Mombasa Lionfish, Frillfin Turkeyfish, Deepwater Firefish

Additional scientific names

Pterois mambassae, Pterois mombassae, Pteropterus mombasae


Sexing

It's very difficult to sex Lionfish, and breeding in captivity has so far been unsuccessful.


Tank compatibility

Can be kept with other members of the Scorpionfish or Rockfish family. However will attempt to eat any fish smaller than itself.


Diet

Difficult to feed. Will need lots of patience to get this fish to take frozen food. Will gladly take live ghost shrimp and will slowly learn to take silversides, krill, squid, cocktail shrimp, scallops or other fresh seafood. These are recommended to be soaked in vitamin supplements before feeding. Do not feed this fish fatty feeder fish such as guppies and goldfish, they can cause liver disease.


Feeding regime

Once or twice day.


Environment specifics

Needs a spacious tank with caves in which to hide.


Behaviour

Not a highly active fish, may slowly swim around the tank, perch on rocks or hide in crevices. Will hide when newly introduced to the tank.


Identification

Mombasa Lionfish can be distinguished from Pterois antennata by their shorter pectoral fin filaments, larger eyes, unique barring pattern on the base of the tail, and lack of the series of dark spots on the pectoral fins. Just like its better-known cousin, the Mombasa Lionfish is a beautiful fish with unique pectoral fin filaments that resemble wings.

Species Note

This animal is venomous and can sting you. It's best not to put your hands in the tank with one of these fish unless you are protected. The sting is like a bee sting and is not fatal unless you have an allergic reaction.

Pictures

External links