Abstract

The Indo-Pacific lionfish invasion in the Western Atlantic is considered one of the most harmful of any known marine fish invasions. The more recent Mediterranean invasion is foreseen to adversely impact the already declining state of marine resources. Lionfish are generalist predators that reduce native species biodiversity and consume commercially, recreationally, and ecologically important native species. Population control of this invasive species has been the primary management action taken to mitigate its numerous negative impacts. Volunteer scuba divers using spears have successfully controlled lionfish on a local scale in parts of the Western Atlantic, and here we highlight the urgent need to permit similar spearfishing efforts in the Mediterranean. Using examples of successful policy changes in the Caribbean, USA, and Cyprus, specific advice is presented for Eastern Mediterranean countries to amend current restrictions and permit well-managed lionfish culling by scuba divers. We also urge coordination of regional practices for detecting, monitoring and controlling populations.

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