Twinspot Lionfish

Dendrochirus biocellatus

The twinspot lionfish (Dendrochirus biocellatus), also known as the Fu Manchu lionfish, is a small venomous scorpionfish in the family Scorpaenidae. Adults reach only about 10 cm with an ornately colored body featuring reddish-brown to dark brown coloration with intricate banding, two distinctive ocelli (eyespots) on the soft dorsal fin, and two elongated barbels on the upper jaw resembling a mustache. The pectoral fins are large and fan-like. This species inhabits coral reefs, rubble areas, and rocky crevices at depths of 1-40 meters across the Indo-Pacific from East Africa to Samoa. Twinspot lionfish are secretive and nocturnal, hiding in small crevices during the day and emerging at dusk to hunt small shrimp and crabs. Their elaborate camouflage and venomous dorsal spines provide defense. Despite their small size, they are among the most ornate and sought-after lionfish species for macro photographers.