Lionfish are beautiful vibrant fish with colorful swaying fins and no fear. These qualities make them popular aquarium pets. But why are these beauties on the menu?
Lionfish are native to the Pacific and Indian oceans, but they have proliferated the Caribbean at an alarming rate. Having almost no predators, the poisonous lionfish are decimating native fish species. This in turn is having an impact on the coral reefs. Many of the fish — that are lionfish lunch — eat certain algae that damage coral, protecting the reefs from disaster. The lionfish is destroying the beautiful Caribbean reefs with its voracious appetite.
While there are many guesses as to how the lionfish invaded, there are no certain answers. Likely they were brought by boats travelling from distant seas, or released by pet owners that no longer wanted their lionfish. No matter the reason, they are in the Caribbean.
In an effort to reduce their numbers and protect the reef many eco-tourism companies and restaurants have come together to inspire tourists and locals alike to kill and eat the lionfish.
Diving companies generally make sure to emphasize the importance of not touching, hurting, or removing anything from the reefs.
Reef Alliance (
Sea TREK’s Reef Protection Program) has a pledge that sums up the policy perfectly: “Take only pictures; leave only bubbles.” However, because of the serious invasion by lionfish many companies are now offering guests the opportunity to spearfish hunt for lionfish. It is a great way to impact the lionfish numbers, while offering guests a new kind of experience.
Additionally, many Caribbean restaurants are serving gourmet lionfish dishes. Lionfish are edible. The venomous spines must be removed, but the lionfish is a delicious whitefish with a flavor similar to a combination of hog snapper and grouper. Furthermore, recipes are being created all of the time inspiring aspiring home cooks to help save the reef.
We have dedicated a Pinterest board to the efforts of reducing the lionfish population in the Caribbean. From restaurants, recipes, and spearhunting locations to a video of a Grouper eating a lionfish (one of the only videos documenting that lionfish may actually have predators), you will find a lot of information about the lionfish. Please repin and share this important information. Spread awareness and save our reefs!
Follow Sea TREK® Helmet Diving's board Lionfish — Facts, Recipes, and More on Pinterest.
For more information please visit these sites:
http://www.safespear.com/v.php?pg=59
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/centralamericaandcaribbean/saintlucia/11384301/Fighting-the-Caribbeans-lionfish-invasion.html
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