Zebra dwarf lionfish

The zebra dwarf lionfish is a marine scorpionfish in the family Scorpaenidae, found on reefs and rubble slopes of the Indo-Pacific. It has a mottled reddish-brown body crossed by dark bands, with greatly enlarged, fan-like pectoral fins and venomous dorsal spines used in defense. It is a slow-moving ambush predator that hides among rocks by day and hunts small fish and crustaceans, spreading its broad pectorals to corner prey. It is suited to a marine aquarium with rockwork caves and dim retreats, kept with tankmates too large to be eaten. It is not aggressive toward people but its venomous spines demand careful handling. It often needs weaning onto frozen meaty foods, initially accepting live prey. It is reef-safe with corals but will eat small fish and shrimp. Given its venom and feeding needs, it suits intermediate to experienced keepers.