Pterois antennata
| Identification | Red, white, and brown banded body with long, ornate pectoral fin rays and shorter dorsal spines than the Volitan Lionfish. Distinctive tentacle-like appendages above the eyes. |
| Maximum Length | 8 inches |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific — Red Sea, East Africa to the Marquesas and Society Islands |
| Minimum Tank Size | 70 gallons |
| Reef Compatibility | With caution — safe with corals but will eat small fish and invertebrates |
Behavior
The Antennata Lionfish (also called the Spotfin Lionfish) is a nocturnal ambush predator that is slightly smaller and less aggressive than the Volitan Lionfish. Like all lionfish, it uses its ornate pectoral fins to herd prey before striking with remarkable speed. During the day it typically rests under ledges or in caves with its pectoral fins spread. It is generally more manageable for mid-sized reef aquariums than its larger relatives. With patience it can become remarkably tame, often accepting food from a feeding stick.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivore. In the wild eats small fish and crustaceans. In captivity train to accept frozen silversides, krill, and carnivore pellets using a feeding stick or tongs. Avoid a steady diet of goldfish or freshwater feeders as these lack marine nutrition.
Cautions
Venomous dorsal, pelvic, and anal spines — handle with extreme care using gloves or tongs. Stings cause intense pain and require immediate medical attention. Will eat any fish or invertebrate small enough to fit in its mouth. Do not house with small gobies, damsels, or shrimp.