Lionfish - Petco

Lionfish
Includes black volitans, red volitans, and dwarfs
Lionfish are solitary creatures and quite popular with aquarists. Be careful
handling lionfish, since their dorsal spines are venemous and can feel like a
strong bee sting for days. Lionfish are very beautiful and entertaining.
Is a lionfish the right choice for your aquarium?
Yes No Check “Yes” or “No” after reading the following statements:
❑ ❑ 1. I have room for an appropriate size aquarium.
❑ ❑ 2. This lionfish would be compatible with my other aquarium
inhabitants.
❑ ❑ 3. I can commit to providing proper care for this lionfish.
❑ ❑ 4. A mature person will provide responsible and primary care for this lionfish.
If you answered “Yes” to these statements, a lionfish may be the right choice for you! Continue reading about how
to care for a lionfish and consult with a PETCO associate to learn more. PETCO is committed to responsible
aquarium care.
Average Size 4 to 18 inches long, depending on species Life Span Depends on species
Diet
Food may be flaked, dried, frozen, or live
Avoid exclusive food which is not nutritionally complete
Feeding
Feed three to four times a week
Feed live fish in the beginning, gradually enticing them to eat other foods
Thaw frozen foods before feeding and vary diet to maintain health
Housing
Two gallons or more per fish inch is recommended for saltwater aquariums with a minimum
aquarium size of 30 gallons to maintain a stable environment
They require more space and better water quality than freshwater fish
Provide rocks or coral and plants
Water temperature should range from 72° F. to 82° F
Salinity levels should range from 1.020 to 1.026
Stable water quality, water temperature, and pH levels are critical to the health of fish.
If you are unsure of your water quality or pH levels, PETCO provides free water testing.
Recommended
Supplies
❑ 30-gallon or larger aquarium ❑ Appropriate food ❑ Filter
❑ Water conditioner ❑ Appropriate lighting ❑ Décor
❑ Water test kit ❑ Aquarium cover ❑ Airstone
❑ Thermometer ❑ Net ❑ Air pump
❑ Heater ❑ Aquarium salt ❑ Protein skimmer
❑ Book about lionfish or marine aquariums ❑ Hydrometer
© 2004, PETCO Animal Supplies, Inc. All rights reserved. (0315) 1 of 2

Lionfish
Includes black volitans, red volitans, and dwarfs
Characteristics
Habitat
Maintenance
Compatibility
Signs of a
Healthy Fish
Common
Health Issues
Mostly solitary, not a very active swimmer
Lionfish attack their meal in one swift motion
Handle carefully: dorsal spines are venomous and can feel like a strong bee sting; although
most people are not affected by lionfish stings some humans may be allergic to the venom
Check filter, other equipment and water temperature daily
Check water quality at least once a week and salinity levels at least twice a week
Change 10–25% of the total volume of water every two to four weeks, or as needed
Introduce new fish to the aquarium gradually
Compatible with fish of similar or larger size; will eat smaller fish
Clear eyes Healthy appetite
Swims slowly Clean in appearance
Bright, even coloring
Health Issue (alpha) Symptoms or Causes Suggested Action
Fin Rot
Marine Ich
Frayed or disintegrating fins;
the base of the fins usually
reddens
Cysts on fins, gills, and skin;
fasting; cloudy eyes; labored
breathing; excess skin
mucus; or pale skin
Improve water quality; commercial
antibiotics may be effective
Treat entire aquarium with a
commercial parasite remedy and
improve water quality; freshwater
dips can dislodge the parasites
Signs of Illness
Preventing
Common
Health Issues
Sources
Loss of color Spots or fungus on body or mouth
Erratic swimming Labored breathing
If you notice any of these signs, test water quality and improve as necessary.
Avoid crowded conditions; they are a major cause of stress and disease
Maintain good water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration
Marine Fishes by Scott W. Michael
Saltwater Aquariums for Dummies by Gregory Skomal
The New Marine Aquarium by Michael S. Paletta
Note: The information on this Care Sheet is not a substitute for veterinary care. If you need additional
information, please refer to the above sources or contact your veterinarian as appropriate.
2 of 2 SKU 926930 © 2004, PETCO Animal Supplies, Inc. All rights reserved. (0315)