Is Lionfish (Pterois) kosher?

Lionfish (Pterois) has become an common invasive fish in Florida. The scales are easily removable.

Thank you.

Chag Sameach

I don’t think it is.
There are some scales but it’s not covered like a typical fish. It’s a very interesting looking fish. We would need to get a better look at the fins and scales. For now it’s not kosher.

They have cycloid scales (fish scales that are oval or elliptical in shape with a smooth edge).

https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/lionfish-facts.html

I can get a sample to get a better look at it.

Thank you.

Send some good pictures of what the scales are like and if it’s mostly covered in scales

Hello Rabbi,

Here are some closeups of the fish as requested. Thank you.