Common Lionfish

Pterois miles, widely known as the Common Lionfish or Devil Firefish, is a striking species of ray-finned fish native to the western Indo-Pacific region. This species is often confused with the red lionfish, a close relative, due to their similar appearance. The name "Pterois miles" combines the Greek word "pteron," meaning "wing," and the Latin "miles," meaning "soldier," possibly inspired by the fish's appearance, reminiscent of the red tunics worn by British soldiers in the 19th century.

This tropical marine fish primarily inhabits coral reefs at depths ranging from 1 to 85 meters (3 to 279 feet). It is known to reach a maximum length of 43 centimeters (approximately 17 inches). The Common Lionfish is characterized by its feathery dorsal fin, which possesses 13 robust, venomous spines and 9 to 11 soft rays, as well as an anal fin with three spines and six or seven soft rays. Its body displays a range of colors from reddish to tan or grey, adorned with numerous thin, dark vertical bars.

Pterois miles was first documented in the 🌊 Indian Ocean along the south coast of 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka by the British naturalist John Whitchurch Bennett in 1828, initially described as Scorpaena miles. Its distribution spans from the 🌊 Red Sea to 🇿🇦 South Africa and 🇮🇩 Indonesia, and it has been recently introduced into the Mediterranean Sea, following its entry via the Suez Canal (🇪🇬 Egypt). The fish has also become an invasive species in the Caribbean and off the eastern coast of the 🇺🇸 United States.

The venomous spines of Pterois miles serve as an effective defense mechanism, deterring many potential predators. However, larger lionfish, as well as some species of moray eels, groupers, and reef sharks, can predate upon them. This venom can pose a severe risk to humans as well, causing significant pain and potentially dangerous symptoms, although fatalities are rare. Immediate medical attention is crucial in case of a sting since individual sensitivity to the venom varies.

Lionfish are primarily nocturnal, seeking refuge in crevices during the day. They feed on fish and small crustaceans. These fish are commercially significant in fisheries and aquariums but are viewed with concern where they become invasive, as their predatory nature can disrupt local ecosystems.