02/27/2020
Opportunistic Monsters!
Invasive Species Awareness Week
Lionfish are opportunistic generalists, meaning they will prey on any convenient species up to 1/2 their own body size. They rotate between prey items based on what is most easily captured and available.
Lionfish prey on ecologically and economically important species of fishes and invertebrates.
Some examples of economically important species are snapper, grouper, shrimp, crabs, and lobster. Without large numbers of juveniles of these species, the adult populations cannot be replaced as they age.
Ecologically important species examples are parrotfish, damselfish, and wrasses. These grazers and herbivores help keep the reefs clean of parasites and algae.
Lionfish are effective predators. Their techniques include ambushing prey, cooperative hunting, and "corralling" with their fan-like pectoral fins.
Lionfish can consume substantial numbers of small fish and crustaceans in one feeding, reducing small fish populations by up to 90 percent.
