By: leo trott

leo trott — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 17:51:18 +0000

OMG the first pic….is that just off my childhood swimming hole at Admiralty Park? That’s too close for me to get in the water for a swim!

By: Weldon Wade

Weldon Wade — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 16:01:48 +0000

Thank you for your questions. From MY perspective and all things considered, due to their reproductive numbers, the fact that they have no natural predators, divers can only go so deep so often, and we don’t have much eyes and action taking place deeper than divers can go, their numbers are increasing. These lionfish culling events are important to help keep their numbers in check, raise awareness, build community and incentivize cullers. I do not see damage to the reef itself specifically as a result of the increase of lionfish in our waters but just because you cannot see it right now doesn’t mean there isn’t an effect. Lionfish are are eating small fish and invertebrates that are important to the reef and ecosystem so damage is being done by way of whatever they are consuming or displacing. Their most popular prey item around here right now are shrimp. We don’t know what role these shrimp play in the grand scheme of things. With regard to fewer fish, my guess is probably not. In my opinion there weren’t many fish around even before lionfish invaded our shores. Lionfish are an added threat and stressor to an already delicate ecosystem. Fortunately, they are edible and taste great.

By: Thank you

Thank you — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 10:04:43 +0000

Thank you for getting g rid of that predator. Are their numbers increasing? Do you see damage to the reefs? Do you see fewer fish as a result of them being in our waters?

Comments on: Nearly 500 Lionfish Caught in Grand Prix Event

By: leo trott

By: Weldon Wade

By: Thank you