This past weekend the first Lionfish Derby was held in Key Largo.  There were prizes for the most, the largest and the smallest lionfish brought in.  Over 500 were caught and killed, hopefully helping to rid the area of this toxic and invasive fish.  The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary has recently blossomed with lionfish, so more derbies are expected in the following months.

Lionfish are found all over the Caribbean and Bahamas now, where they are also invasive.  Unlike most tropical fish, Lionfish are resistant to cold temperatures.  They eat important baby reef fish, like grouper and snapper.  Of course they also compete with native fish for food.   They also have long spines which are toxic to humans if touched. Spearfishers and anglers are encouraged to kill them whenever they can.

Here’s one that was caught via Hawaiian sling in Key West waters on the reef.