August 6, 2010 High resolution (Credit: NOAA) A new study
looking at how to curb the rapid growth of lionfish, an invasive
species not native to the Atlantic Ocean, suggests that
approximately 27 percent of mature lionfish will have to be
removed monthly for one year to reduce its population growth
rate to zero. But the good news is that the invasive fish
happens to be delicious—and NOAA is encouraging chefs to find
new ways to introduce it to U.S. consumers. Lionfish are native
to the western and central Pacific Ocean, but have established
themselves from North Carolina to South America. They are a
popular aquarium fish that were likely first released in Florida
waters in the mid-1980s. Since then, the species has spread
rapidly. Scientists and public officials are seriously concerned
at the effect lionfish are having on reef ecosystems, since this
predator is capable of rapid population growth and outcompeting
native fish for food and territory. “This study offers us the
first target for fishing and other l