Colored Volitan Lionfish

Pterois volitans

Saltwater Fish Species Group: Lionfish Family: Scorpaenidae

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Water parameters

Temp 76-80 F Temperature

Maintaining a stable and appropriate temperature is critical for the survival of aquatic life.

pH 7.8 - 8.4 potential of Hydrogen

Measuring the acidity or alkalinity of water on a 0–14 scale, where 7 is neutral, 7 is alkaline.

NO3 1-20 ppm Nitrate

While less toxic than ammonia, high nitrate levels (above 40–80 ppm) are important to monitor because they can cause fish stress, stunted growth, and harmful algae blooms.

NO2 <0.0001 ppm Nitrite

It is a highly toxic, intermediate compound in the nitrogen cycle produced from broken-down ammonia

PO4 0.01 - 0.1 ppm Phosphate

It is essential for plant development but must be managed, as excess levels trigger nuisance algae blooms and inhibit coral calcification.

NH3 <0.1 ppm Ammonia

It is the primary killer of aquarium fish, causing gill damage, stress, and death

Ca 380 - 450 ppm Calcium

Supporting the growth, skeletal structure, and shell formation of corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and coralline algae

KH 8 - 12 dKH Alkalinity

It acts as a shield, neutralizing acids to prevent dangerous pH "crashes" that can harm fish, corals, and plants.

Mg 1200 - 1400 ppm Magnesium

It enables coral growth by supporting skeletal formation, assists in metabolic processes, and ensures that calcium is available for corals, clams, and coralline algae.

SG 1.023 - 1.026 SG Salinity

Essential for maintaining stable, natural water parameters, proper osmoregulation, and stress-free environments for marine fish and corals

ORP 250 - 400 mV Oxidation-Reduction Potential

A higher positive mV indicates clean, oxygen-rich water with high water quality, while low readings indicate high pollution.

About Colored Volitan Lionfish

General information

The Volitan Lionfish it’s coloration can vary depending on the age and maturity of the fish, displaying a red to burgundy, white, and brown to black vertical stripes along the length of the body. It also has large, fan-like pectoral fins, and tall, banded spines on the dorsal fin. The Volitan Lionfish is very similar to the Miles Lionfish with the exception of their origin as the Miles Lionfish species is restricted to the Indian Ocean: Red Sea, South Africa, and east to Sumatra. The Volitain Lionfish differs from the visually similar Miles Lionfish, as Miles have fewer spines on its dorsal and anal fins. The Volitan Lionfish can grow rapidly to an adult size of 15 inches, and when fully grown these fishes should be housed in a large aquarium with numerous hiding places. It will hide while acclimating to its new home but then is generally found out in the open. It may eat smaller fish, shrimp, and other crustaceans in the tank. The spines on the dorsal, pelvic, and anal fins are venomous and used solely for defense. If stung, the effect is similar to a bee sting, only stronger. Lionfish venom contains proteins that are broken up by heat, which prevent them from entering the bloodstream. After a sting, remove any broken spines lodged in the wound, and immediately immerse the affected area in the hottest water you can stand (not scalding), for 30 minutes, followed by medical attention. For individuals sensitive to stings, it's advisable to seek medical attention immediately.

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