Antennata Lionfish Medium

About this fish

Antennata Lionfish Medium is a marine lionfish sold as a “medium” size class, with the scientific identity given as Pterois antennata. In a home aquarium, lionfish are best appreciated as active, predatory display fish that will take appropriate meaty foods. They’re commonly housed in species-focused or fish-only setups because of their hunting behavior and the care needed around their venomous spines.

Features:

• Predatory marine fish that primarily eats meaty, whole or appropriately sized foods
• Venomous dorsal, anal, and pelvic spines—use care when handling and when netting or moving décor
• Usually best kept singly or with careful tank planning, as they are active hunters and tankmates must be chosen thoughtfully
• Generally suited to aquascapes with open swimming room plus hiding spaces (rockwork/caves)
• Can be sensitive to poor water quality, making stable, well-established filtration important
• Best with a secure lid: lionfish are capable swimmers and can startle into sudden movement

Specifications:

• Scientific name (as listed): Pterois antennata
• Care level (general guidance): Intermediate
• Temperament (general guidance): Predatory; not community-safe
• Light: Not specifically light-dependent; provide normal aquarium lighting and shaded areas
• Water flow (general guidance): Moderate, for stable circulation
• Placement: Mid-to-lower water when hunting; use open swimming space
• Adult size (general guidance): Up to about 12 in (species can vary)
• Diet: Carnivorous; meaty foods (e.g., appropriately sized seafood/frozen marine foods)
• Temperature: About 72–78°F
• pH: About 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: About 1.020–1.026 specific gravity
• Recommended habitat: Marine aquarium; use a secure cover