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| THE CLEARFIN LIONFISH |
Pterois radiata:
The clearfin lionfish, also known as the tailbar lionfish, radiata lionfish, whitefin lionfish, or radial firefish, is a carnivorous ray-finned fish with venomous spines that live in the Indian and western Pacific oceans. They are similar looking to their cousin the Pterois antennata. They are the only lionfish species with blank spines, but they can also be recognized by the pair of horizontal white stripes on its tail. They prefer to spend time in caves, overhangs, and other shady spots. This species will eat smaller fishes, ornamental shrimps and crabs.
They have a total of 12-13 dorsal spines with 10-12 dorsal soft rays. They have 3 anal spines with 5-6 anal soft rays. The clearfin lionfish are red to brown with 5-6 broad dark bars on their body separated by pale lines. They have a horizontal dark area on their caudal peduncle. They are the only species of Pterois that lacks markings between its vertical fin rays and they have a pair of horizontal white stripes at base of their tail.
This is a generally uncommon species that inhabits lagoons and seaward reefs. They pefer rocky reefs and seem to avoid stony corals. They are coastal and sometimes are found in surge zones or in narrow crevices or along rock-walls in small caves. They can also be found under ledges during the day