Common name: African lionfish
General information
The Mombasa Lionfish, scientifically known as Pterois mombasae, is a striking species known for its elongated fin rays and bold, zebra-like stripes. This species is a member of the family Scorpaenidae, which includes other lionfish and scorpionfish. The Mombasa Lionfish is less common in the aquarium trade compared to its relatives like the Red Lionfish (Pterois volitans), but it is prized for its unique appearance and behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 35 cm (1′2″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Venomous spines; handle with care
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live or frozen foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial; best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May eat smaller fish/inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Aggressive towards smaller fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderScorpionfishesScorpaeniformes
- FamilyScorpionfishScorpaenidae
- GenusLionfishPterois
- SpeciesAfrican lionfishPterois mombasae (Smith, 1957)
- SynonymsPterois mambassae (Smith, 1957)Pteropterus mombasae Smith, 1957
Care
Mombasa Lionfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding places and room to swim. They are predatory fish and should be housed with larger tank mates to prevent them from preying on smaller fish and invertebrates. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and small fish is essential for their health. Care should be taken when handling this species due to their venomous spines, which can deliver a painful sting.
Reproduction
In the wild, Mombasa Lionfish are solitary spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. In captivity, breeding is less common, but with careful attention to water quality and diet, it is possible to encourage spawning behavior.
Habitat
Native to the Indian Ocean, the Mombasa Lionfish can be found in coastal reefs and lagoons, often hiding in crevices during the day. They are nocturnal hunters, emerging at night to feed on smaller fish and crustaceans. In the aquarium, replicating their natural habitat with rockwork and dim lighting can help them feel secure and display natural behaviors.