Abstract

Lionfish are venomous, predatory reef-fish native to the Indo-Pacific region, but have become widely distributed in the western Atlantic. The introduction is most likely due to aquaria releases as it is among the top species imported to the US. Due to high fecundity, adaptability to non-native habitats and tolerance to large temperature and depth ranges, the lionfish invasion in the Atlantic has potential to become the most detrimental marine invasion in history. Lionfish were first confirmed in Bonaire on the 26th of October, 2009. Since then, despite active eradication attempts, they have increased in abundance, occupying reef and reef-associated habitats at a range of depths. Trinidad and Tobago have yet to be invaded by lionfish but the invasion is likely imminent. The surface currents moving westward along the northern coast of South America may be delaying the arrival of lionfish in Trinidad and Tobago. Predictions indicate that the range of lionfish will expand throughout the entire Caribbean, including Trinidad and Tobago, and south along the eastern coast of South America to Brazil. Questionnaires were conducted with target groups (lionfish-hunters, divers, dive-shops, fishermen and pet-shop owners) in Bonaire and Trinidad and Tobago. These revealed that there was a significant difference in the level of opinions and awareness between the invaded territory (Bonaire) and the un-invaded territory (Trinidad and Tobago). The current lionfish management strategies in Bonaire and the Caribbean were also appraised to suggest the best approach for Trinidad and Tobago in dealing with the future threat of lionfish.