Quick Stats:

Dendrochirus biocellatus

(Fu Manchu Lionfish)

 

Maximum Size: 4" - 5" TL
Habitat: Caves and crevices..
Diet: Very difficult to convert to frozen.
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate due to dietary requirements.
Minimum Tank Size:  30 gallons.
Special Considerations: Venomous.

A primarily crepuscular fish, this little lion is a bit more reclusive, preferring to remain in caves and crevices throughout the day, becoming more active under dim lighting.  They can be trained, however, to venture out when the lights are on as a learned response to a feeding routine. Their hunting behavior involves shaking of the head to and fro and fanning the dorsal spines in a rhythmic, undulating pattern.. Like other lionfish, they also spread and shake their pectoral fins in an effort to confuse and corral their prey. They have one of the most beautiful and mesmerizing hunting displays. I have witnesed. Its natural diet is shrimp and small benthic fish. They are notoriously hard at being weaned from live to frozen fare. Some never convert at all and must be fed live food their entire lives.

Their small size makes them perfect for the smaller “aggressive”aquarium, however, special attention must be paid to potential food competitiors.This species is not as common as some of the other dwarf lions, but is occasionally available.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Scorpaeniformes
Family: Scorpaenidae
Subfamily: Scorpaeninae
Genus Dendrochirus
Species: D. biocellatus


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