You may have heard reports of the lionfish epidemic taking place over the last several years in the Atlantic Ocean, but perhaps you aren’t aware of why such a beautiful creature could be the subject of an aquatic witch hunt. In fact, more attention than ever is being focused on the capture and eradication of this species due to their explosive increase in population. It may seem counterintuitive to oceanic conservation to be actively seeking to destroy these fish, but rest assured, there is a much greater concern at stake.
Lionfish, or Pterois, are indigenous to the warm waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, particularly in tropical regions. They can frequently be seen in places like Hawaii and Fiji. Here they are a natural part of an ecosystem where they may enjoy a predator’s life, but must still be on the lookout for their own predators. Lionfish are incredibly territorial and generally display a hostile disposition. Pair that with venomous spines and aggressive hunting tactics, and you’ve got a handful of trouble in a pretty little package.
These are all pretty normal attributes that many fish and animal species share; they are all necessary tools for survival. The problem arises greatly when this type of species is introduced to an environment that has never seen the likes of such a powerful killing machine, and even if they knew how to fend it off, are not equipped with appropriate defense mechanisms. Herein lies the problem for the Atlantic coral reef systems, which we have recently learned are already in peril. In order for a reef ecosystem to be sustainable, there must be a balance of the life that inhabits the area, with hunting and breeding cycles all occurring in harmony.
When the lionfish enters this system with no natural enemies, a ferocious appetite, and prolific levels of spawning, the ecosystem just doesn’t stand a chance. It has been studied within the entire Atlantic region, such as the Bahamas, Cozumel, and even as far north as New York, with one conclusion estimating that up to 80% of species in a reef are decimated by the lionfish within only a five week period. It seems to have little prejudice in the species it hunts, consuming the herbaceous fish as well as the carnivorous. This disrupts the necessary balance by eliminating the fish who feed on seaweed and other sea plants, which then overtake coral reefs in their effort to reach the sun, destroying the ecosystem at an accelerated rate.
If you choose to take part in helping to eradicate this invasive species, be sure to use the necessary safety precautions. There are specially designed catch bags for lionfish, but you will also likely need a durable pair of gloves as well as a speargun of some kind.
It is important to maintain that balance not only for ocean ecosystems, but for the impact they have on humans as well. Fishing and tourist activities rapidly decrease or disappear altogether if there are no reefs. Like any invasive species, if its sole function destroys the natural beauty and fragile ecosystems already in place, then elimination for the greater good is the lesser of evils.
