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Lionfish

Pterois

Quick Facts

Scientific name: Pterois
Class: Fish
Length: 12 to 15 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Lifespan in the wild: Unknown
Lifespan in professional care: 10 years
Conservation status: Least concern
Number of offspring: 2,000 to 15,000 eggs at a time

About

I LIVE IN THE INDO-PACIFIC OCEAN

The lionfish is a uniquely patterned fish native to the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. They can be found roaming warm marine waters with coral reefs and mangrove forests from South Korea to Australia.


I AM A CARNIVORE

Lionfish are a carnivorous fish species known to consume small reef fish such as snapper and grouper, as well as invertebrates like crabs and shrimp.


LIONFISH ARE SOLITARY

When they are juveniles, lionfish tend to live in small groups. However, as they grow older they often venture off on their own because they like to have their own space, from both lionfish and other species of fish.


THE MANE REASON

The lionfish has large fan-like pectoral fins and separated dorsal spines with unique red and white colorations on them. These fins and spines that surround a lionfish’s head mimic a lion’s name, hence the name lionfish.


HELPING THE LIONFISH IN THE WILD

By visiting the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, you are supporting local, regional, and global conservation. A portion of every ticket sold goes towards the conservation of wildlife and wild places. Each year, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo donates over $250,000 to our conservation partners


I AM IMPORTANT TO MY ECOSYSTEM

Because of their carnivorous diet, the lionfish plays an important role in keeping certain marine species populations under control.


 

Conservation

Learn more about our efforts, our conservation partners around the world, and the simple steps you can take to contribute.

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