Why are small coral-reef fish species so vulnerable to lionfish predation, and what can be done about it?

You have seen that this question is greatly informed by understanding the power that species interactions have on shaping the behavior, physiology, and morphology of interacting species. It is clear that the longer species are exposed to one another, the more likely it is that they will develop strategies that allow coexistence. When lionfishes were inadvertently introduced to coral reefs in the Atlantic Ocean, native coral-reef fishes were exposed to a simple but novel predator behavior for which they currently have no viable defense mechanisms. It is unclear whether native coral-reef fishes will evolve defensive mechanisms before coral-reef fish communities are irreparably damaged. One potential strategy to slow the invasion may be to introduce predators of lionfishes. Unfortunately, however, lionfishes are well defended by frilly fin rays with venomous spines and a zebralike barred coloration that provides crypsis. To make matters worse, populations of predators that might control lionfish populations (such as sharks) are drastically declining as a consequence of overfishing. Fortunately lionfishes are relatively easy to catch, and the future may lie in controlling the population through systematic harvesting by humans.

Future directions

Some people have argued that the best way to control lionfishes is through commercial fishing. Lionfishes are attracted to lobster traps and can also be easily speared. The only risk to harvesters is in being poked by the spines, but this can be avoided if the fish are handled with care. After some initial skepticism, restaurant owners are realizing that lionfish are very good eating; the meat has a light, buttery flavor. Efforts are now ramping up to create a market for this destructive invader. Lionfish and chips, anyone?