The Dwarf Lionfish (Dendrochirus brachypterus), also known as the Shortfin Lionfish or Fuzzy Lionfish, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Scorpaenidae. It was first formally described in 1829 by the French zoologist Georges Cuvier. The specific name brachypterus means "short finned" in reference to its relatively short pectoral fins compared to other lionfish species.

Distribution and Habitat

The Dwarf Lionfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Marshall Islands, Fiji, and Australia. It inhabits coral reefs and rocky substrates at depths ranging from 1 to 80 meters. It is typically found in shallow coastal waters and lagoons where it shelters among coral heads and rocky crevices.

Physical Description

The Dwarf Lionfish reaches a maximum total length of 17 cm (6.7 in). It has a compressed body with a large head and a sloping profile. The body is reddish-brown to grey with darker vertical bands. The pectoral fins are short and rounded, with the upper rays extending beyond the membrane to form filaments. The dorsal fin has 13 spines and the anal fin has 3 spines. The fin rays are covered with fleshy tissue that gives the fish a fuzzy appearance. The mouth is large and terminal with small teeth.

Diet and Feeding

The Dwarf Lionfish is a carnivorous predator that feeds primarily on small fish and crustaceans. It uses its large pectoral fins to corner prey against the substrate before swallowing them whole. It is an ambush predator that waits motionless for prey to come within striking distance. In the aquarium it accepts frozen and live foods including brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small fish.

Behavior and Reproduction

The Dwarf Lionfish is solitary and nocturnal, becoming more active at dusk. During the day it rests in crevices and under overhangs. It is generally peaceful toward other fish but will eat any prey that fits in its mouth. Reproduction involves the male and female swimming together near the surface where the female releases a gelatinous egg mass that is fertilized by the male. The eggs float and hatch into pelagic larvae.

Aquarium Care

In captivity the Dwarf Lionfish requires a tank of at least 30 gallons with plenty of hiding places and live rock. It needs to be slowly acclimated and fed a varied diet of meaty foods. It is generally reef-safe with caution as it may eat small fish and shrimp. It is compatible with larger peaceful fish but should not be housed with aggressive species that may nip at its fins. Water temperature should be maintained between 72-82 F (22-28 C) with pH 8.1-8.4.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.