Lion Fish

The Lion Fish has stripes on the side of it's body which is what gives it its name. They have large venomous spines on the top of their bodies which will inflict very painful puncture wounds. Although not fatal, if you are stung by one you must seek medical attention immediately. They are medium sized fish, about 30cm long and will live to be around 15 years old. The females can produce up to 30,000 eggs every few days which accounts for the increasing numbers of Lion Fish in our Oceans.

They live in the south pacific and have no real natural predators, apart from man. They are a very invasive species of fish and eat over 50 other types of fish, some of which are from unsustainable species, which means that some of the fish it eats are declining in numbers because they are eating them faster than new ones are being born.

To catch it's prey it will spread its fins out and herd fish into small confined spaces were they are easier to catch. They will gulp down their prey whole with their huge mouths. It will usually hunt for smaller fish and crustaceans on the sea floor but its venom is also capable of killing much larger creatures.They are mainly nocturnal (night) hunters and can often be found moving in groups.

Dangerous Fact:
The Lion Fish has 18 venomous needle like spines on its back that it uses in self defence. A sting from one is extremely painfull and will cause breathing difficulties and sickness.

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