Dwarf fuzzy lionfish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Indo-Pacific Ocean, from the Red Sea to Samoa. Inhabits shallow lagoons, expanses of debris and coastal seagrass beds, hiding among sponges or dead corals by day.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Dwarf Lionfish / Shortfin Turkeyfish (Dendrochirus brachypterus). "Dwarf" sized scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae). The wide pectoral fins are not divided into rays, but united by a membrane almost to the tip, like a fan.

Social Behavior: Crepuscular and nocturnal predator. Spends the day resting on the bottom upside down under ledges. Extremely static but proud; does not attack other fish for territory, but only out of hunger.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Stunning cryptic red, brown or even yellow (very rare varieties) livery with faded bands. Adult males have a slightly more massive head but there is no obvious dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Marine tank of at least 150 liters (40 gallons). Rocky setup that offers large caves and shaded overhangs where it can rest by day. Intense light bothers it.

Diet and Feeding: Ambush carnivore, hunts invertebrates. In the aquarium it must be patiently weaned by moving thawed shrimp, krill or squid pieces on a stick. Ignores dry food; will devour live ornamental crustaceans.

Water Quality: Very robust species (specific gravity 1.022 - 1.025). Being a heavy carnivorous predator that pollutes a lot, it requires an excellent skimmer and generous water changes to stem nitrates.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Can cohabit in Reef aquariums (Reef Safe towards corals), but will exterminate any ornamental shrimp (Lysmata, Stenopus) or small fish (gobies, small damselfish) that fit in its mouth.

Aquarium Reproduction: Never achieved at the amateur level. Nocturnal courtships end with the pelagic release of thousands of floating eggs in gelatinous masses.

Risks and Diseases: WARNING: Possesses highly VENOMOUS dorsal, anal and pelvic rays. The sting (very painful for humans) must be treated with hot water and medical care. It suffers greatly from rapid fluctuations in salinity.