Fin's Fish Guide
The Dragon's beard fish (Pterois lunulata) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The luna lionfish is a lionfish (Scorpaenidae) from the northwestern Pacific. The species has a red-brown, white-banded body and spectacularly long, fan-like spread pectoral fins and long dorsal fin spines. It lives on rocky bottoms in subtropical waters, often on open substrate with scattered outcrops. Slowly it hunts small fishes and crustaceans, which it corners with its large pectoral fins. The long dorsal fin spines are venomous; a sting is very painful.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dragon's beard fish?
The Dragon's beard fish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Spectacularly long, fan-shaped pectoral fins and venomous dorsal fin spines; corners its prey.
Where does the Dragon's beard fish live?
The Dragon's beard fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northwest Pacific; rocky bottoms in subtropical waters.
How big does the Dragon's beard fish get?
The Dragon's beard fish grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Dragon's beard fish dangerous to humans?
The Dragon's beard fish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by a fin spine: immerse the affected part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 degrees C) to break down the venom, and seek medical care for severe or persistent symptoms.
Is the Dragon's beard fish edible?
The Dragon's beard fish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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 Dragon's beard fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dragon's beard fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.