Twinspot Lionfish

Twinspot Lionfish (Dendrochirus biocellatus) is an aggressive predatory species that is not reef-safe as it will consume any fish, shrimp, or crab small enough to fit in its mouth. This remarkable predator displays cryptic brown, tan, and cream mottled patterns across its compact body with ornate pectoral fins and venomous dorsal spines, but is most famous for the distinctive pair of large, eye-like spots (ocelli) on its dorsal fin that give it both its common name and an intimidating appearance to potential threats. The twin eyespots and intricate camouflage patterns make this one of the most uniquely marked lionfish species available in the trade. It can reach about 4-5 inches in adult size. Best kept in tanks of at least 30 gallons or more, with plenty of caves, crevices, and rocky hiding spots for ambush hunting, gentle to moderate water flow, stable water parameters, and caution around the venomous spines which can deliver painful stings despite the fish's small stature. Its diet should include a mix of live or frozen meaty foods—small fish, mysid shrimp, ghost shrimp, brine shrimp—as well as finely chopped marine fare, though this species often requires live foods initially and can be among the more challenging lionfish to establish on prepared diets.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.