This is Dendrochirus barberi or the Green Lionfish.
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This is Dendrochirus barberi or the green lionfish.
In Hawaiian, it is known as Nohupinao (dragonfly). While lionfish are a predatory fish, invasive, and a nuisance in most places in the world, the Hawaiian green lionfish are endemic and native in Hawaii and the eastern central Pacific. They are rarely seen as the aquarium trade has lead to the scarcity of this species. However, since 2020 all aquarium collections were banned in Hawaii without an environmental review.
This fish is a type of marine ray-finned fish that belongs to the family Scorpaenidae.
This includes scorpionfish and lionfish. This species will grow to about 6.5 inches and have long spines. They are greenish-brown with red eyes and dramatic patterns. Their side fins, or pectoral fins, are broad and will open like a fan. There are 13 spines and 9 soft rays in it’s dorsal fin. In the anal fin, there are 3 spines and 5 soft rays. These fish hide during the day and feed at night. Feasting on crustaceans, small fish, and shrimp. If they are disturbed, they will raise their feathery fins in defense to warn fish or people off. However, if they are cornered they are known to charge at a quick speed. They have no natural predators. They are not poisonous but the spines are venomous.
The image above was taken during a Private Ocean Project Maui Snorkel Tour.
This colorful image was taken off a West Maui Beach by the dedicated staff of Ocean Project Maui. They offer custom, private snorkel tours around the island of Maui, Hawaii. Each #COLORSOFTHEOCEAN image you see in our monthly blog, was captured during a private guided snorkel tour. These amazing images, as well as images above and below the water of the clients/supporters are included in every tour at no additional cost.
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