Lionfish
Pterois volitans
An adult lionfish lives on reefs, rocky ledges, seagrass beds, and wrecks in warm marine waters. It is a patient ambush predator, feeding mainly on small fish and crustaceans that are trapped or startled by its broad pectoral fins. Long venomous spines on the dorsal, pelvic, and anal fins deter would-be predators and can deliver a painful sting. Its success as an invasive predator in the western Atlantic is tied to rapid reproduction, broad diet, and few local enemies.
- Type
- Water / Venom
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- ?
- Lionfish Juvenile
- Lionfish