Facts about Lionfish

1. 06

   In traditional Chinese medicine, lionfish have been used for centuries to treat arthritis and inflammation, with dried lionfish body parts commanding prices up to $100 per kilogram in Asian markets.

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2. 05

   During hunting expeditions, lionfish use their large pectoral fins to corral prey into tight corners, employing coordinated herding behavior similar to wolves or orcas.

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3. 04

   A lionfish's elaborate fan-like pectoral fins contain 13 venomous spines that remain dangerous even after the fish dies, posing a threat to fishermen and divers for days.

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4. 03

   Lionfish can consume prey up to half their own body size, with their expandable stomachs allowing them to swallow fish nearly 12 inches long whole.

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5. 02

   Native to Indo-Pacific coral reefs, lionfish have invaded Atlantic waters since the 1980s and now number in the millions across the western Atlantic Ocean.

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6. 01

   Venomous spines on lionfish contain neurotoxins that can cause excruciating pain lasting up to 24 hours in human victims.

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