Lionfish compete for food with native predatory fish such as grouper and snapper/NPS, Yasmeen Smalley
Whether nonnative lionfish have reached the waters of Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida is the focus of research getting underway Saturday and running into October.
A total of four survey dives will be conducted by the Ocean Strike Team in partnership with the University of Florida Extension Program. The purpose of these surveys is to determine the extent, if any, of the lionfish within Gulf Islands National Seashore on the estuary side to the west of Fort Pickens.
With few or no predators, and a high reproductive rate, the nonnative lionfish is an invasive species of concern. It can quickly invade marine environments and threaten ecosystems by out competing native fishes and consuming a variety of species, significantly reducing juvenile populations of native fish.
Lionfish are not aggressive, but better observed from a distance. Lionfish have venomous spines that are used as a defense mechanism and can sting humans. A lionfish sting can result in pain and swelling of the contacted area. The fish's flesh is not poisonous and is edible.
The rapid expansion of lionfish threatens the resources and values that national parks protect and diminishes the quality of visitor experience. If found, the fish will be removed, and a plan will be developed to manage the invasion.
Any lionfish encountered during these surveys will be removed with pole spears (if large enough) or hand nets/bottles and disposed of properly in accordance with the National Park Service Lionfish Response Plan. The use of spears to fish is strictly prohibited in the park. A special permit was obtained for this study by citizen scientist. The research will also be made available to the public.
To report a lionfish sighting for the purpose of research, contact Rick O’Connor at [email protected] or Brady Hale at [email protected].
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