Lionfish on reef
Rich Carey
The invasion and proliferation of lionfish threatens biodiversity in the Wider Caribbean Region. A strategic plan for their control provides a framework to address the invasion with a concerted approach across political and geographical boundaries. Cooperation is promoted among governments, reef-reliant industries, civil society and academia. A transboundary research and monitoring agenda is coupled with local action plans, information campaigns and the adaptation of policy guidelines.
Last update: 24 Jul 2019
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Context
Challenges addressed
the several serious threats of invasive lionfish
The two invasive lionfish species pose a serious threat to native coral-reef associated marine life, and contribute to the decline of many commerically and ecologically important species. The invasive lionfish population could have a significant negative impact on economically important activities. Furthermore, the lionfish's venomous spines are a safety risk to both fishermen and recreational divers.
Location
Cozumel Island, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Caribbean
Process
Building Blocks
Regional and intersectoral collaboration
Collaborative efforts among governments, reef-reliant industries, civil society and academia promote buy-in and enhance extraction resources. Defining roles, responsibilities and strategic priorities of all parties involved aids in increasing the effectiveness of lionfish control programmes.
Enabling factors
Understanding the need to share resources and information.
Lesson learned
Gaps and inconsistencies among policies, legislations and regulations governing marine resources in Caribbean countries were identified. Few countries have laws and regulations specifically dedicated to lionfish (or more broadly marine invasive alien species). Amending instruments to achieve greater legislative coherence nationally, and between countries and territories is important. Implementing legislative instruments typically requires time; regional organizations may be able to provide support.
Research and monitoring
Scientific baseline data of species behavior and environmental impact is used to design appropriate tools for control. The use of these tools is continuously monitored, enabling their assessment and adjustment in an adaptive management process.
Enabling factors
NA
Lesson learned
NA
Control of lionfish populations
Lionfish management requires the involvement of all affected parties, coupled with tailored strategies to reflect ecological, cultural and social differences within the region. Legal policies regulate the aquarium trade of lionfish, as well as conditions and gear for lionfish removal.
Enabling factors
Committment to cooperate and share knowledge and experiences.
Lesson learned
Strategies and tools for control differ depending on local variables and the spatial scale at which control is enacted. Sharing knowledge on removal tools and techniques can ensure the use of best practices in the Region. Partnerships with reef-reliant industries such as the fishery and tourism sector enhance resources available for removal.
Awareness raising on invasive species
Education, information and outreach programs help to enhance public support and participation of local communities in invasive lionfish control programs.
Enabling factors
NA
Lesson learned
The earlier appropriate outreach activities are implemented, the more they are taken up.
Impacts
The results of pilot areas have shown a clear reduction in the lionfish population: 17 individuals per hectare compared to previously extremely invaded areas with 320 individuals per hectare. The commercial use of lionfish generated important economic benefits in fishing communities – e.g. in the case of Cozumel and Puerto Morelos where the consumption of lionfish is even promoted as a delicacy. Furthermore, the free access to lionfish for the entire community beyond the commercial fishery helps to secure alimentation.
Beneficiaries
fisheries and tourism sector, local communities, local and national authorities
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