Lion Fish
A Lionfish is any of several species of venomous marine fish in the genera Pterois, Parapterois, Brachypterois, Ebosia or Dendrochirus, of the family Scorpaenidae.
Natural Habitat
The lionfish is native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region of the world, various species can be found worldwide. Due to a recent introduction, the lionfish has recently been spotted in the warmer coral regions of the Eastern Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea . Lionfish are an invasive species.
Size
The common lionfish generally reaches a size of 30-35cm. Smaller lionfish ( the Fuzzy Dwarf) are about the size of a tennis ball (not including fins). There are many types of lionfish that vary in size.
Venom
Lionfish have venomous spines that are deadly to their prey, but usually not to humans. If a human is envenomated, that person will experience severe pain and possible headaches and vomiting. A common treatment is soaking the afflicted area in hot water, as very few hospitals carry specific treatments. However, immediate emergency medical treatment is still advised, as some people may be more susceptible to the venom than others.
Hunting
When hunting, they corner prey using their large fins and then use their quick reflexes to swallow the prey whole.
