Most lionfish kept in the home aquariums are not deadly. They are only deadly if you ignore the sting or your allergic. Scorpions have a more potent sting then most lionfish, my scorpion stung me a month ago. This is what it feels like: YOu know when you stub your toe on the air conditioner vent in your house? It is just like that but instead of it going away in about 30 seconds. It sticks with you until you get the sting in really hot water.