Latin name

Pterois mombasae

Other name

Deepwater firefish, frillfin turkeyfish

Identification

The species name mombasae is derived from the African city of Mombasa. Those living in the Pacific Ocean are recognised as a separate species.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 6 - 7. 

Fish colouring

This is a brightly coloured fish. It is red with white and brown horizontal stripes all over the body and fins. The dorsal and pectoral fins have long, poisonous, brightly coloured barbs.

Distribution

Widespread in the Indian Ocean.

Habitat

It is a tropical marine species that lives on coral reefs at depths of up to 70 metres. 

Size

They are medium sized fish 20-31 cm long. 

Behavior

Occupies the continental shelf. A rare inhabitant of the rocky bottoms of deep-water coastal reefs. Usually found on soft bottoms or muddy substrates with large amounts of detritus, among rich vegetation of invertebrates, especially sponges. Also found among soft corals, singly or in small groups.

Food and feeding habits

An active predator, it feeds on small fish and crustaceans.

Reproduction

Female African lionfish lay mucus-filled eggs. They can lay up to 2 million eggs a year.

Fishing

This species is of minor commercial importance in fisheries.

Relationship with a person

Harmless. Sold fresh in small quantities at markets.