Pterois lunulata Temminck & Schlegel, 1843 Luna lion fish |
photo by
Shao, K.T. |
Family: | Scorpaenidae (Scorpionfishes or rockfishes), subfamily: Pteroinae | |||
Max. size: | 35 cm TL (male/unsexed) | |||
Environment: | reef-associated; marine; depth range 132 - 172 m | |||
Distribution: | Indo-Pacific: Mauritius (Ref. 5503) then from southern Japan southwards. | |||
Diagnosis: | Has 13 pectoral rays and maybe confused with P. russellii. Median fish are almost clear, but become spotted in large adults. It is best identified by the pale-centered scales on the principal dark bands on the body forming a net-like pattern and V-like markings across the pectoral fin rays (Ref. 48635). | |||
Biology: | On rocky substrates in subtropical waters. Usually found on open substrates with remote outcrops of reef or soft-bottom substrates at moderate depths (Ref. 48635). Feeds on fish and crustaceans. Spines are venomous. | |||
IUCN Red List Status: | Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 04 February 2009 Ref. (130435) | |||
Threat to humans: | venomous |