Fu Manchu Lionfish

Fu Manchu Lionfish: The Twinspot Dwarf

The Fu Manchu Lionfish (Dendrochirus biocellatus) is one of the most unique and challenging dwarf lionfish species. It is instantly recognizable by the two long, feathery appendages that hang from its lower jaw, which resemble a classic "Fu Manchu" mustache, hence its common name. Other distinctive features include two prominent black ocelli (eye-spots) on the soft dorsal fin and a mottled red-orange, brown, and white body coloration.

As a dwarf species native to the Indo-Pacific, the Fu Manchu Lionfish remains small, reaching a maximum length of about 5 inches (13 cm). Its small size and secretive, nocturnal nature mean it does not require the massive tank space of its larger cousins, but a minimum of 30 gallons is recommended. The aquarium must be heavily aquascaped with numerous caves, crevices, and rocky overhangs, as this fish is very shy and spends most of the day in hiding, often resting upside-down.

Due to its specialized care requirements, particularly its often-difficult feeding habits and shy nature, the Fu Manchu Lionfish is considered a moderately difficult species and is not recommended for beginner aquarists. Like all lionfish, its fins house powerful venomous spines, requiring careful handling during all tank operations.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: The Fu Manchu Lionfish is a finicky Carnivore and a specialized predator that primarily eats small fish and crustaceans in the wild. This fish is notoriously difficult to wean onto prepared foods, and many specimens will only initially accept live food, such as live saltwater feeder shrimp. Converting it to non-living foods (like small pieces of marine shrimp, krill, or silversides) requires patience, usually by "wiggling" the food on a feeding stick to mimic live prey. Do not feed freshwater feeder fish (goldfish, guppies) due to the risk of fatty liver disease.
• Feeding: Due to a low metabolism, adults should be target-fed a large meal once every 2-3 days. Ensure it gets enough food, as it is easily outcompeted by faster, more aggressive tankmates.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Reef Safe With Caution. It will not bother corals, but it will hunt and eat all small fish and ornamental crustaceans (shrimp, crabs) that fit into its mouth. It is peaceful toward sessile inverts and larger tankmates.
• Temperament: It is Shy and Solitary. It is generally peaceful toward larger, non-aggressive fish. However, it is known to be highly aggressive toward its own species and should be kept as the only Fu Manchu Lionfish in the aquarium. Avoid large, belligerent tankmates that will prevent it from feeding or force it to remain hidden.
• Venomous Spines: The sting can cause intense pain and is a serious health risk, especially to those with allergies. If stung, immediately immerse the affected area in the hottest water you can tolerate (do not scald) for 30-90 minutes, as heat helps neutralize the venom. Seek medical attention immediately.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Dendrochirus biocellatus
• Primary Common Name: Fu Manchu Lionfish
• Other Common Names: Twinspot Lionfish, Ocellated Lionfish, Twospot Turkeyfish
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Widespread)
• Max Size: 5 inches (13 cm)
• Temperament: Shy / Semi-Aggressive (Venomous)
• Diet: Carnivore (Difficult to wean to frozen foods)
• Minimum Tank Size: 30+ Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: With Caution (Will eat invertebrates and small fish)