Red Lionfish

Pterois volitans

Habitat & Distribution : Reef-associated, depth range of 2 - 55 m, Pacific ocean

Diet : Small fish and crustaceans

Size: Up to 45,7 cm; 1,4kg

Lifespan: 10 years

Description

Lionfish have colourful fin rays that resemble a lion's mane. Like in many scorpion fishes, the difference is they have venom-filled spines in the pectoral & dorsal fins. But only the bony fin is dangerous for humans because it can penetrate the skin. 

Behavior

Solitary. Nocturnal and crepuscular, it actively hunts from late afternoon  until dawn. When hunting, it will corner its prey with its large fins, and then swallow them with their lightning quick reflexes. It can even catch prey that is doubly fast as it is by using the persistent pursuit approach, taking advantage of the lapses and pauses in between chases by persistently and slowly pursuing the prey without end, When it's close enough, it will "suck" the prey into its mouth.

Reproduction

They only gather during courtship, usually involving one male and multiple females. They have a unique courtship ritual that involves circling, sidewinding, following and leading. After courtship, the female will release two egg masses that will be fertilized by the male and float to the surface.

Communication & Perception

Their striking appearance is a form of aposematism, a visual signal to its predators that it is dangerous and unsavory to consume.

Predator

Nassau and tiger grouper, moray eel

Conservation Status : Least Concern (IUCN Red List; 2016)