Lionfish sick ?

[joej]

My new lionfish has lost some of its ("skin"? /coloring) over its top spines is this due to a sickness,or is it normal? What can I do. Its medium size in a 92G water is ok, feeding every third day and eating well. Thanks Joe

 

[squidd]

Lion fish do shed there skin/slime layer (cuticle) from time to time.
It's a way for them to shed/remove parasites and irritants, bacteria etc.
Most likely a response to a change in conditions/stress.
Keep an eye on him for other signs.

 

[joej]

About one inch of the upper part of the spines I guess they are called is almost clear in color or white. The rest being red/brown stripped. Also I guess tryed feeding and for the first time food was turned down. Also seems to be moving much faster than normal mostly on one side of tank. ....? Help

 

[squidd]

Oh, thats different then "shedding"
My lionfish's spines (the top part) will turn white/clear when hes startled or stressed. Like when you try to "catch" him.
But the color returns relativly quickly as he settles in...
How long has this been going on? What other tankmates might be stressing him?

 

[squidd]

Something else I thought of as I read over the "other" lionfish not eating posts (and you mentioned your's not eating)is the old "food" on a stick routine...
I'm not saying your doing this but...when you put a chunk of food on a stick and wave it franticly in front of his face it can actually freak him out rather than illicet a feeding response...
Think about it...Ever been to a campfire where someone cooks a hotdog ona stick and then waves it in front of your face, inches from your nose? Would you try to take a bite?