Who Gives A Fish Forums

Christmas is over and I'm diving headfirst into my research for the big tank. I've got my sights set on lionfish, and I've just gotten my hands on Volume 1 of the reef fishes book - thanks for the rec. After some thought, I've decided against the volitans, they're just too big for my taste.

I'm aiming for a 250l tank, and I'm not too fussed about keeping coflakes with the lionfish, but I reckon soft coflakes could work. I've been eyeing up the Dendrochitus Blazulipterus - specifically the Dwarf and fuzzy Dwarf - and the Pterois Russelli and Radiata. The antennata is also on my radar, but I suppose it all depends on what I can find when I'm ready to make a purchase.

My main questions are: can I keep the Dwarf with the Russelli/Radiata, and if so, how many can I keep together? Also, would it be possible to keep Scorpionfish with these lionfish, and if so, which type would be the best fit?

I've also come across the idea of feeding them cockles and Mussels - is this a viable option? I'm still in the early stages of planning this tank, and I'd really appreciate any guidance you can offer. I want to get this right from the start, and I know that research and planning are key.

I think you've made a good choice with the lionfish, though I do have some reservations about keeping P. ruselli with the others. P. radiata can be a bit delicate in captivity, so you'll need to keep a close eye on them.

If you've got a fairly large dwarf lion and a smaller Pterois sp, you should be okay, but there's always a slight risk - just make sure to keep them well fed.

As for scorpionfish, they can definitely be kept with lionfish, just make sure the scorpionfish is big enough not to become a snack.

Thanks zenfox8, I really appreciate your input. I'm starting to get a better idea of how I can stock my tank now. So, as long as I've got a decent-sized dwarf lion and a smaller Pterois sp, I should be alright with keeping them together, and if I add a scorpionfish that's larger than the lion, that should work too.

In terms of quantities, would I be able to keep more than one of each, or is it best to stick with just one of each species? I'm also keen to know more about feeding them - I've read that mussels and cockles are a good option, and living near Leigh on Sea, I'd have a good supply of those.

To minimize the risk of the scorpionfish being eaten, it doesn't necessarily need to be bigger, but ideally at least two-thirds the size of the lionfish would be a good starting point.

The food you've suggested should be fine, lionfish naturally hunt inverts so mussels and cockles should be suitable. Adding a vitamin solution to the food can be beneficial to ensure they get all the nutrients they need. There's a place near you, Tugs Tanks on Southchurch Road, Southend, Mark there does a good spray on additive for frozen food to defrost in.