*We cannot ship Lionfish species to the state of Florida.

Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Reef Compatible: No

General Description: The Mombasa Lionfish, also known as the African Lionfish or Deep Water Lionfish, are most commonly found in the Indian Ocean. As one of its common names suggests, the Mombasa lionfish can be found at depths up to 130 feet (40 meters) making this species infrequently encountered in the trade as collection of specimens is difficult. Mombasa lionfish are a reddish color with white barring throughout the body. They look very similar to Antennata Lionfish (Pterois antennata), however Mombasa lionfish have shorter pectoral fin filaments, larger eyes and lack dark spots at the base of the pectoral fins. To distinguish from the very common Volitan lionfish (P. volitans), the Mombasa lionfish’s adult size is much smaller (approximately 6″) and the pectoral fins are more fan-like. Lionfish are sensitive to copper based medications. Caution: Mombasa lionfish have a series of venomous spines on their dorsal, pelvic and anal fins that are used in defense. If stung, the sensation is similar to a bee sting but more potent. Remove any part of the spine from the affected area (if applicable) and put the wound underneath the hottest water you can tolerate (not scalding) for 15 – 20 minutes; this breaks down the venom proteins. Then seek the appropriate medical attention. For those that are sensitive to stings, seek medical attention immediately.

Diet Requirements: Mombasa lionfish are carnivores. In most cases, lionfish need to be offered live food as a precursor to frozen foods. We recommend giving live ghost shrimp a high quality flake food before feeding them to a lionfish so that they have greater nutritional value. Use a pair of tongs to hold the prey in front of the lionfish so that it begins to associate the tongs with feeding. Some lionfish may turn away or be startled at first, but consistency is key. Once your Mombasa lionfish is interested in frozen foods, appropriate options will vary depending on the size of the individual. Examples include brine shrimp, squid, mysis shrimp, krill, and chopped fish to maintain optimal health and coloration. Because lionfish don’t actively swim throughout the day in the water column, they can be target fed every other day.

Care Requirements: A minimum 75 gallon aquarium is ideal for a Mombasa lionfish. Because they’re a deep water species, Mombasa lionfish appreciate a more dimly lit aquarium or at the very least, some live rock in the aquarium to create caves to hang in during the day. Mixing different lionfish species should be approached with caution. Mombasa lionfish will consume invertebrates and fish small enough to fit in their mouths, making them unsuitable for reef aquariums. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Medium: 4″ to 4-1/2″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.