Fin's Fish Guide
The Bantol (Dendrochirus biocellatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The Fu Manchu lionfish is a small, venomous lionfish from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a red-brown banded body, fan-shaped pectoral fins and, on the rear dorsal fin, two conspicuous eyespots; on the chin it bears a pair of moustache-like appendages. The dorsal spines contain powerful venom glands that cause an intense, painful reaction when they sting. As a nocturnal ambush hunter it shelters by day in crevices and caves. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bantol?
The Bantol has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Venomous dorsal fin spines, eyespots and whisker-like chin appendages; nocturnal
Where does the Bantol live?
The Bantol lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Bantol get?
The Bantol grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Bantol dangerous to humans?
The Bantol is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by the dorsal spines: immerse the affected part in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove visible spine fragments, and seek medical help for severe pain, swelling or breathing difficulty.
Is the Bantol edible?
The Bantol is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Bantol?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bantol is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dendrochirus
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Bantol?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bantol is one of 12,519 species in the app.