Lionfish has turned dark, why?

[kevin]

I purchased a lionfish about 10 days ago. He has turned very dark in color, much deeper browns than he was in the store. He is eating chunks of raw shrimp fine but hides a lot behind rocks and does not move around very much. He is the only fish in this 20 gal, tank. Salinity, Ph, amonia and nitrites are fine. What does this change in color mean??

 

[kevin]

Thanks for replying. The temp is at 79 degrees. Salinity is at .024, a bit high I know but could this really be that bad? He is relatively small, about 6-7 inches. He (or she?) actualy looked a bit better today, a little lighter in color and moving around a bit more. Lighting is just a 15 watt flourescent that is on for 10-12 hours a day. Thanks.
[This message has been edited by Kevin (edited 10-17-2000).]

 

[veskas]

I think he's really cramped in there! I have a Red Volitans in a 180 & he swims back & forth all day. Hope you can upgrade soon!