Dendrochirus zebra

Datasheet

General Description:
The Zebra Lionfish, scientifically known as Dendrochirus zebra, belongs to the family Scorpaenidae. These fish are characterized by their striking appearance and intriguing behavior. They are native to the Indo-West Pacific region, spanning from the Red Sea and East Africa to southern Japan and Australia. Zebra Lionfish are equipped with venomous spines that serve as a defense mechanism against predators.

Aquarium Suitability:
Zebra Lionfish are considered suitable for aquariums with proper care and caution. They are known for their hardiness, requiring a minimum tank size of 200 liters. These fish have a peaceful temperament but are predatory in nature, preying on small fish and crustaceans. Aquarists should be aware of the Zebra Lionfish's venomous nature and handle them with care to avoid any incidents.

Demands:
Zebra Lionfish have specific demands in terms of feeding and habitat. They thrive on a diet of live fish and shrimp, with some individuals reluctant to consume frozen foods. It is recommended to feed them a substantial meal twice a week for optimal nutrition. Additionally, they prefer aquariums with overhangs and caves to mimic their natural habitat.

Care and Hardiness:
These fish are classified as hardy and can adapt well to aquarium conditions. It is essential to provide them with a varied and nutritious diet to ensure their well-being. Zebra Lionfish should not be overfed, and aquarists must exercise caution when handling them due to their venomous spines.

Reef Suitability:
Zebra Lionfish are considered reef-safe with caution. While they generally do not harm corals or other reef inhabitants, their predatory nature may pose a threat to smaller fish and crustaceans within the reef environment.

Aquarium Setup:
Setting up an aquarium for Zebra Lionfish involves creating a suitable environment with ample hiding spots such as caves and overhangs. A tank size of at least 200 liters is recommended to accommodate their size and needs. Maintaining water conditions with a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, pH of 8.1-8.4, and salinity of 1.020-1.025 is crucial for their health.

Behaviour:
Zebra Lionfish tend to become tame over time and can even recognize their owners. However, their predatory instincts remain strong, making it important to avoid contact with their venomous spines during maintenance tasks in the tank.

Feeding and Diet:
These fish have a diet consisting of live fish and larger crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs. Aquarists should offer them a nutritious and varied diet to ensure their dietary requirements are met. Feeding Zebra Lionfish a few times a week with whole prey items is recommended.

Habitat and Distribution:
In their natural habitat, Zebra Lionfish are found in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, and the Red Sea. They prefer areas with coral reefs and rocky crevices where they can hide and ambush prey effectively. Their distribution ranges from the Red Sea and East Africa to Samoa, extending northwards to southern Japan and the Ogasawara Islands, and southwards to Australia and Lord Howe Island.

Dimorphism:
(Zebra Lionfish do not exhibit significant dimorphism. Information on captive reproduction is not provided.)