Fin's Fish Guide
The Mombasa lionfish (Pterois mombasae) is a saltwater fish of the family Scorpaenidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The Mombasa lionfish is a small lionfish from the western Indian Ocean and the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a red-brown to brown banded body with greatly elongated, fan-shaped pectoral fins and long dorsal spines bearing skin flaps. Those dorsal spines are linked to powerful venom glands, and a sting causes an intense, very painful reaction. As a nocturnal ambush hunter it drifts slowly above the reef and corners small fish and crustaceans with its pectoral fins. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mombasa lionfish?
The Mombasa lionfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Venomous dorsal fin spines and fan-shaped pectoral fins; nocturnal ambush predator
Where does the Mombasa lionfish live?
The Mombasa lionfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Mombasa lionfish get?
The Mombasa lionfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Mombasa lionfish dangerous to humans?
The Mombasa lionfish 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 immediately for severe pain, swelling or breathing difficulty.
Is the Mombasa lionfish edible?
The Mombasa lionfish is not usually eaten.
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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 Mombasa lionfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mombasa lionfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.