Just wanted to give everyone a heads-up that we have confirmed lionfish sightings and captures as far Southwest as Panama... keep an eye out! These guys eat larval/juvenile stage fishes, and can apparently decimate an ecosystem singlefinnedly in a matter of weeks! They are highly venomous, however, and stings can produce extreme and lasting pain - so don't try removing them unless you know how to do so safely. Please DO, however, raise awareness by reporting any sightings to Project AWARE, Oceanic Defense, Beautiful Oceans, the operation with whom you're diving... anyone you can think of!
These fish are an invasive species from the South Pacific with no natural predators here in the Caribbean. For photos and more information, including safety, removal, and even cooking advice, you can check out http://www.lionfishhunter.com/Lionfish Hunter.html
These fish are an invasive species from the South Pacific with no natural predators here in the Caribbean. For photos and more information, including safety, removal, and even cooking advice, you can check out http://www.lionfishhunter.com/Lionfish Hunter.html