The Blackfoot Firefish (Parapterois heterura), also known as the Blue-Fin Lionfish or Gurnard Lionfish, is a captivating marine species belonging to the Scorpaenidae family. Renowned for its distinctive appearance and behavior, this species is of interest to marine enthusiasts and aquarists alike.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: ⚠️ With caution (may prey on very small fish)
• Small invertebrate safe: ⚠️ With caution (may consume small crustaceans)
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes (does not harm corals)
• Minimum tank size: 115 litres (30 gallons)
• Adult size: Typically up to 11 cm (4 inches); maximum reported length 38 cm (15 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on small fish and invertebrates
• Be aware of: Venomous spines; handle with extreme caution
Appearance and Colouration
Parapterois heterura exhibits a unique and striking appearance:
• Body Colouration: Red and white hues with irregular dark bars on the head and body.
• Pectoral Fins: Notably expansive, featuring dark brown inner surfaces adorned with vivid blue bands.
• Caudal Fin: Truncated with elongated upper and lower rays, often possessing filamentous extensions.
• Size: While the maximum length is reported at 38 cm (15 inches), most individuals are much smaller, with adults commonly around 11 cm (4 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
This species is distributed across two distinct regions: the southeastern coast of Africa and the central Indo-Pacific, including areas such as Japan, Indonesia, New Guinea, and Australia.
• Habitat: Typically found in sheltered coastal bays with soft substrates like fine sand or mud, at depths ranging from 40 to 300 meters.
• Behavior: Largely nocturnal and sedentary, P. heterura may partially bury itself in the substrate during daylight hours, making it difficult to spot. When threatened, it flashes its brightly colored pectoral fins to startle predators and may use these fins to corner prey.
• Diet: Feeds on small fish and bottom-dwelling invertebrates.
Aquarium Care
While not commonly found in the aquarium trade, Parapterois heterura can be maintained by experienced aquarists who can meet its specific care requirements:
• Tank Size: A minimum of 115 litres (30 gallons) is recommended to provide adequate space.
• Aquascaping: Incorporate soft substrates like fine sand or mud to mimic natural habitats, along with hiding spots such as caves or overhangs.
• Diet: Offer a carnivorous diet consisting of small fish and invertebrates.
• Tank Mates: Select non-aggressive species of similar size to avoid predation or bullying.
Due to their venomous spines, caution is advised during tank maintenance to prevent injury.
For more detailed information, consulting specialized ichthyological resources or databases is recommended.