The Fu Manchu Lionfish (Dendrochirus biocellatus), also known as the Twinspot Lionfish or Ocellated Lionfish, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Scorpaenidae. It was first formally described in 1801 by the German naturalist Marcus Bloch. The specific name biocellatus means "two-eyed" in reference to the two distinctive ocelli or eyespots on the dorsal fin.

Distribution and Habitat

The Fu Manchu Lionfish is found in the Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Marshall Islands, Fiji, and Australia. It inhabits coral reefs and rocky substrates at depths from 1 to 40 meters. It prefers shallow coastal waters and lagoons with abundant coral cover where it can hide among the reef structure.

Physical Description

The Fu Manchu Lionfish reaches a maximum total length of 13 cm (5.1 in). The body is reddish-brown with darker mottling and two distinctive dark ocelli with pale margins on the soft dorsal fin. The pectoral fins are large and rounded with the lower rays free from the membrane. The most distinctive feature is the pair of long, whisker-like tentacles above the mouth that resemble the Fu Manchu mustache, giving the species its common name. The dorsal fin has 13 spines and the anal fin has 3 spines.

Diet and Feeding

The Fu Manchu Lionfish is a carnivorous ambush predator that feeds on small fish and crustaceans. It uses its pectoral fins to herd prey and its long tentacles may help lure small fish within striking distance. In the aquarium it can be trained to accept frozen foods but initially may only accept live foods such as ghost shrimp and small feeder fish.

Behavior and Reproduction

This species is solitary and nocturnal. It is one of the smaller lionfish species and is generally peaceful toward larger tankmates. It is a slow-moving fish that relies on camouflage and ambush tactics to capture prey. Reproduction involves the release of a buoyant egg mass.

Aquarium Care

The Fu Manchu Lionfish requires a tank of at least 30 gallons with plenty of live rock and hiding places. It is generally reef-safe with caution as it will eat small shrimp and fish. It is compatible with larger peaceful fish. This species can be difficult to feed initially and may require live foods before transitioning to frozen foods. 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.