Guides Fish Care Rating:
2 StarsScientific Name:
Pterois sphex (Jordan & Evermann, 1903).
Other Common Names:
Sphex Lionfish, Hawaiian or Sphex Turkey or Scorpionfish, and Wasp Scorpionfish.
Identification:
The name sphex is the Greek word for wasp, which was undoubtedly given to this fish because of the severity of its venomous stinging spines.
Distribution:
Endemic to Hawaiian waters, but closely related to
other Indo-Pacific species.
Average Size:
To about 7 inches, with larger specimens reaching about 10 inches.
Minimum Tank Size Suggested:
55 gallons, and with adequate shelter.
Habitat:
Bottom-dweller that prefers the quieter waters on the reef and plenty of shelter.For details on the
characteristics, compatibility, diet and
feeding of this fish and other related Indo-Pacific species, refer to our
Genus
Pterois Scorpionfishes Profile.