Lionfish – Fuzzy Dwarf

Fuzzy Dwarf Lionfish Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size: 40 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 17.5cm (7″)

Diet: Carnivore (Will eat small fish)

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Lifespan: Up to 10 years

Scientific Name: Dendrochirus Brachypterus

Other Names:  Shortfin Lionfish

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: No

Approx. Purchase Size: 2 inches

The fuzzy dwarf lionfish, scientific name Dendrochirus Brachypterus is a semi-aggressive fish. Their minimum tank size is 40 gallons. Fuzzy dwarf lionfish can grow up to 7” and can live up to 10 years. Fuzzy dwarf lionfish are carnivores and should be fed frozen foods such as mysis. They can also be fed small pieces of raw seafood such as squid or silversides. Lionfish eat other small fish in the wild so getting them to eat frozen can take time and patience. In the wild adult lionfish can eat up to 100 small fish per day. Having them in a tank with other fish can help them learn how to eat frozen. Monkey see, monkey do. Lionfish can go weeks without eating so if they wont take food one day, try again later or the following day. Fuzzy dwarf lionfish can be kept singly, in pairs or in groups as long as they are similar size. Dwarf lionfish can be kept with larger lionfish. Lionfish will not bother coral or invertebrates for the most part but they will prey upon shrimp. Lionfish will eat smaller more peaceful fish and should be housed with large semi-aggressive to aggressive tank mates. The fuzzy dwarf lionfish is also referred to as the shortfin lionfish. Lionfish have venomous dorsal fins, caution should be taken when moving lionfish and when working in the tank.