Where are the lionfish invading?
Lionfish are now invading the Gulf of Mexico and the northern coast of South America. These fish pose a serious threat to reef fish populations across the region, and thus to coral reef ecosystems and the people who depend on them.
What has the lionfish invaded?
For more than a decade, lionfish have created a global problem by invading the United States Atlantic coastal waters, the Gulf Coast, and the Caribbean Sea. In addition to destroying native fish and plants, lionfish are capable of harming the economy.
Where did lionfish become invasive?
It is believed that they were introduced into the Atlantic in the late 1980s by local aquariums or fish hobbyists in Florida. Lionfish have now spread throughout the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, South America and as far north as Massachusetts – and now they are in Bermuda Behaviour.
When did the lionfish invasion start?
The first lionfish was reported in South Florida waters in 1985 with many additional sightings occurring until they were documented as established in the early 2000s.
How can we stop the lionfish invasion?
Here are 7 simple ways you can help keep Lionfish numbers under control, and perhaps literally become the ocean’s Last Action Hero.
- Eat ’em to Beat ’em.
- Join a Lionfish Derby.
- Become a Lionfish Reporter.
- Don’t Feed the Sharks!
- Don’t Free Your Pets!
- Donate.
- Spread the Word by Sharing.
How did lionfish invade Florida?
Biologists believe they were probably introduced when aquarium owners emptied unwanted pet lionfish into nearby coastal waters. Lionfish were first officially reported in the western Atlantic Ocean in 1985.
How fast do lionfish grow?
Lionfish reach adult size in approximately 2 years. The largest record lionfish measured a little over 47.7cm or 19.5 inches and was speared near Islamorada, Florida in the United States.