The lionfish has a very strong reproductive capacity. Only during the breeding season will the lionfish come into contact with other species. In this case, a male lionfish will be pursued by multiple female lionfish, and several lionfish act together to form a school of 3-8 fish.

When lionfish are ready to breed, the difference in appearance between the sexes becomes more obvious. Male lionfish are darkened, blackened, and appear more uniform in color, with inconspicuous white streaks. Female lionfish that have bred mature eggs will turn pale, and the abdomen, pharynx and snout will turn white. Such color changes make it easier for females to find males.