Zebra Lionfish (juvenile)

Dendrochirus zebra is a species of marine fish in the family Scorpaenidae.

Other names: Zebra Turkeyfish.

Description

The zebra turkeyfish is a scorpaenid fish with vertical stripes in reddish orange, white and black on the body, and large, banded fan-like pectoral fins that flare out on either side as the fish lies on the seabed. The front dorsal fin is made up of thirteen tall, quill-like spines and the second dorsal fin has ten to eleven soft rays. The anal fin has three spines and about ten soft rays. The second dorsal fin, the anal fin and the rounded caudal fin are transversely banded in black and white. This fish grows to a maximum length of about 25 cm (10 in).

Distribution

The zebra turkeyfish is native to the Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea to Indonesia and eastern Australia.

Habitat

It is found in inshore waters down to a depth of about 80 m (262 ft). It is a bottom-dwelling species and is found on coral, pebble, and rock bottoms on reef flats, outer reefs and lagoons and also in caves, sometimes in small groups. The zebra lionfish feeds on small crustaceans, and is in turn preyed upon by groupers.

This member of the scorpionfish family has thirteen venomous spines along its back, used to defend itself. These spines are connected with a clear film-like membrane. These fish are slow-moving and peaceful, but can be dangerous. They have a habit of resting in places hidden from light such as under a rock or a piece of coral. All lionfish are immune to each other's venom and all are solitary fish.