Pterois antennata – Lionfish
Reef Compatible – With Caution
Care Level – Intermediate
Disposition – Semi-aggressive
Min. Tank Size – 30 gallons
Mature Size – 8 inches
Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Size (Adult) | 8 inches |
| Min. Tank Size | 30 gallons |
| Compatibility | Reef compatible with caution |
| Behavior | Semi-aggressive |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate |
FAQ
Is the lionfish safe to keep with other reef fish?
The lionfish is reef compatible with caution. It may pose a threat to smaller, slower-moving fish and invertebrates. Careful selection of tank mates is recommended.
What is the expected adult size of this lionfish?
The mature size of this lionfish is 8 inches.
What is the minimum tank size required?
A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is required for proper growth and stability.

Nicholas Bailey –
I’ve had this lionfish for six months now. It’s active and colorful, though it does chase small fish occasionally. I’ve placed it in a 40-gallon tank with larger corals and it’s not causing major issues. The behavior is manageable with proper tank setup.
Neil Burgess –
The lionfish looks stunning in the tank. I noticed it’s more active at night. I made sure to keep it away from small shrimp and snails. Overall, it’s a good addition to a well-established reef tank.
Jack McGrath –
It’s not as peaceful as I expected. I had to remove a few small fish after a few weeks. I’m still learning how to balance the tank with this species. Would recommend for experienced aquarists.