Dwarf Fuzzy Lionfish

Fuzzy Dwarf Lionfish: The Small, Personal Predator

The Fuzzy Dwarf Lionfish (Dendrochirus brachypterus) is one of the most popular and manageable lionfish species available to marine hobbyists. Its common name comes from the small, fleshy, fuzzy-looking appendages on its head and fins, which aid in camouflage. Also known as the Shortfin Lionfish or Dwarf Lionfish, this species typically displays a striking mottled pattern of red, black, and white, with color variations ranging from dark brown to rare yellows.

Native to the Indo-Pacific, the Fuzzy Dwarf Lionfish is a smaller, more sedentary predator, reaching a maximum size of 6 to 7 inches (15–18 cm). Its smaller adult size makes it suitable for smaller predator systems than its larger Pterois cousins, requiring a minimum aquarium size of 50 gallons or more. Like all lionfish, it is a cryptic, nocturnal hunter that prefers dim lighting and plenty of rockwork, caves, and overhangs where it can perch, often upside-down, waiting for prey.

The Fuzzy Dwarf Lionfish is known for developing a surprising personality, quickly recognizing and responding to its owner, making it a true "pet" fish—but its venomous spines necessitate extreme caution.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This fish is a dedicated Carnivore, primarily feeding on small crustaceans and fish in the wild. Initial feeding often requires live saltwater ghost shrimp or similar prey to stimulate a feeding response. It should be gradually weaned onto a captive diet of varied frozen, meaty foods, such as silversides, krill, raw shrimp, and squid. Use a feeding stick or tongs to target feed.
• Feeding: Due to a low metabolism, the Dwarf Lionfish only needs to be fed a large meal 2–3 times per week. **Never feed freshwater feeder fish** (like guppies or goldfish), as this leads to fatal nutritional deficiencies.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Reef Safe With Caution. While it will not bother corals, it will systematically hunt and consume ornamental shrimp, crabs, and any fish small enough to fit into its mouth.
• Temperament: It is Semi-Aggressive / Predatory. It is generally peaceful toward tankmates that are too large to be considered food (over half its body length). Do not house with aggressive fish (e.g., certain large triggers, large puffers) that may nip at its delicate fins.
• Venomous Spines: The sting is painful, often likened to a severe bee sting. If stung, the standard treatment is to soak the affected area in the hottest water you can tolerate (not scalding) for 30–90 minutes to break down the protein-based venom. Seek medical attention immediately.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Dendrochirus brachypterus
• Primary Common Name: Fuzzy Dwarf Lionfish
• Other Common Names: Shortfin Lionfish, Dwarf Lionfish, Shortfin Turkeyfish
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Widespread)
• Max Size: 6-7 inches (15-18 cm)
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Predatory (Venomous)
• Diet: Carnivore (Must be converted to frozen meaty foods)
• Minimum Tank Size: 50+ Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: With Caution (Eats all small invertebrates and fish)