Pterois and Dendrochirus Overview Also known as Zebrafish and Turkeyfish, Lionfish are remarkably beautiful creatures exhibiting a wealth of colour, from red, black and white to cream, brown and orange. True hunters, these animals have been know to swim in packs, forming complex strategies to ambush and capture their prey. For scientists this activity provokes a variety of questions, such as levels of intelligence and methods of communication.
Lionfish also possess an equally evolved defence mechanism.
The dorsal, anal and pelvic fins are extremely venomous and with this plummage of venomous spines the majestic Lionfish commands instinctive respect with a display of aggression. Each of these spines is enveloped in an integumentary sheath, which, when ruptured, during a fight allows the protein-based toxin within to be released by mechanical pressure. The venom flows along ducts know as anterolateral grooves, which originate at the base of the spine and terminate at the tip. Distribution Lionfish are well distributed and can be found throughout the Indian Ocean, Tropical Pacific and Red Sea. They are also found at varying depths, from shallow reef areas to deep drop offs.