Radiata Lionfish

The radiata lionfish is easily distinguished from other lionfish by the absence of membrane between the long white rays of its pectoral fins. Its dark red-brown body carries thin white vertical lines, and there are two horizontal white lines on the tail base. It is a nocturnal hunter and in the wild feeds mainly on shrimp and crabs. Venomous spine warning: The dorsal, pelvic and anal spines are venomous; if stung, immerse the wound in water as hot as can be tolerated and seek medical attention. Specimens are wild-collected; never release it into the wild.

• At least 300 liters; caves and overhangs to rest in during the day.
• Salinity specific gravity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–27°C.
• Reef-safe with caution: it leaves corals alone, but eats shrimp, crabs and fish that fit in its mouth.
• It is sensitive to copper treatment.

Carnivorous. It switches to prepared food with more difficulty than other lionfish; it should be patiently weaned onto thawed shrimp, mysis and fish flesh with a feeding stick. Live freshwater feeder fish should not be given. Adults are fed 3–4 times a week.

Shy during the day, it hunts in the evening and at night. It is peaceful towards fish that do not fit in its mouth.

Good companions: Calm, medium-sized and large fish: tangs, dwarf angelfish (large specimens), foxface, moray eels, other lionfish.

Avoid: Shrimp, small fish, seahorses, fin-nipping triggerfish and pufferfish.