How do lionfish use their fins and spines to defend themselves?

Lionfish, which belong to the scorpion fish family (order Scorpaeniformes), utilize their distinct physical features as a primary defense mechanism. When these fish are disturbed, they spread and display their enlarged pectoral fins and elongated dorsal fin spines to warn potential threats.12

If the fish is further pressed or threatened, it will actively present and attack using its dorsal spines. These spines are venomous and are capable of inflicting painful, though rarely fatal, puncture wounds on those who come into contact with them. This combination of visual display and chemical defense serves as an effective deterrent against predators.12