Shipped Lionfish

KQuillan · May 25, 2026

I just ordered a lionfish. What is the best way to get him into the tank when he arrives?

Jay Hemdal · May 26, 2026

KQuillan said:
I just ordered a lionfish. What is the best way to get him into the tank when he arrives?

Do you mean to avoid being stung or to acclimate it?

What species and size are you getting?
How long will the shipping time be?

Here is my article on fish acclimation:
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/acclimation-methods.903/

KQuillan · May 26, 2026

Jay Hemdal said:
Do you mean to avoid being stung or to acclimate it?

What species and size are you getting?
How long will the shipping time be?

Here is my article on fish acclimation:
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/acclimation-methods.903/

Hi Jay,

It's a Zebra and overnight shipping.

Jay Hemdal · May 26, 2026

KQuillan said:
Hi Jay,

It's a Zebra and overnight shipping.

Ask the shipper what salinity the fish is in and then match your tank to that value. Then, the acclimation process can go much faster. You don’t want the fish to linger in the high ammonia shipping water.

I pour most of the shipping water out into a bucket and then up end the bag into the tank so I don’t have to actually handle the fish.

KQuillan · May 26, 2026

Jay Hemdal said:
Ask the shipper what salinity the fish is in and then match your tank to that value. Then, the acclimation process can go much faster. You don’t want the fish to linger in the high ammonia shipping water.

I pour most of the shipping water out into a bucket and then up end the bag into the tank so I don’t have to actually handle the fish.

Thanks Jay!

Waters · Jun 10, 2026

I always follow whatever the shipper recommends. Some use ammonia blockers but most don't...some ship in low salinity while others are in the 25-26 range. The warranty often is based on whether or not your follow their instructions (first thing they do if there is a problem is ask you how you acclimated.)