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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Scorpaenidae (Lionfish)
Natural Range: Red Sea, Indian Ocean
Depth: 33 to 179 ft. Size: 9.5 in. Jumps: No Space: 30+ gal.
Reef Safe: Yes Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Small fish
Natural History: The Sea Goblin is found on sand and mud bottom, often on inshore reefs. It is observed to burrow and leave only the top of the head and dorsal fin visible. This species ambushes smaller fish that swim by. Its pectoral and dorsal fins are tipped with venom which can inflict a very painful wound to the unsuspecting hand or knee on a reef.
Husbandry: The Sea Goblin should be housed in an aquarium with at least 2 inches of sand substrate to enable it to bury. During acclimation, live food will likely be required. Grass shrimp and small feeder fish are commonly used to entice feeding. Without sand or in a small aquarium a Sea Goblin may swim incessantly against the glass and damage its lower jaw. Temporarily taping a dark barrier around the perimeter of the aquarium (8 to 10 inches tall) or moving it to a large aquarium may curb this self-destructive behavior. This species must be handled very carefully because its pectoral and pelvic fins can envenomate and cause very painful stings.
AKA: Filamented Devilfish, Filament-finned Stringer