Fin's Fish Guide
The Devil firefish (Pterois miles) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 43 cm.
Description
The devil firefish is a large lionfish from the western Indian Ocean and the Red Sea; through the Suez Canal it has spread invasively into the Mediterranean. The species grows to about 43 cm and has a red-and-white banded body with spectacularly long, fan-shaped pectoral fins and long dorsal spines. Those dorsal spines are linked to powerful venom glands, and a sting causes an intense, very painful reaction. As an ambush hunter it drifts slowly above the reef and corners small fish and crustaceans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Devil firefish?
The Devil firefish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Venomous dorsal fin spines and long fan-shaped pectoral fins; invasive ambush predator
Where does the Devil firefish live?
The Devil firefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea
How big does the Devil firefish get?
The Devil firefish grows to a maximum of about 43 cm.
Is the Devil firefish dangerous to humans?
The Devil firefish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by the fin spines: immerse the affected part in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, and seek medical help for severe pain, swelling or breathing difficulty.
Is the Devil firefish edible?
The Devil firefish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Devil firefish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pterois
More from the family Scorpaenidae
Want the complete picture on the Devil firefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Devil firefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.