The red lionfish is aptly named as its mane-looking red or maroon and white striped spines dominate its appearance. The spines are poisonous, rendering the fish inedible while expertly keeping prey at bay.

Red lionfish live mainly in the Indo-Pacific ocean regions. Since they reproduce every month and have few predators, the Pterois volitans population is exploding, particularly around the Eastern U.S. and the Caribbean. This species over-abundance is becoming a threat to some eco-systems. Their diet consists of crabs, shrimp, crustaceans and fish, which are swallowed whole. 

Red lionfish can grow to 18 1/2 inches and live for 10 years.

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