The good news is that many experts across the U.S. are working to solve the lionfish problem, and they say there are ways to keep these invasive creatures under control.
First, we can make sure that no non-native pets like lionfish are released into the wild.
Second, we can report lionfish sightings. The Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) has trained scuba divers to hunt lionfish. Anyone who spots a lionfish can tell REEF. Within 24 hours, divers will find and humanely kill the fish.
And third, there’s the most delicious solution—we can eat them.
In 2010, REEF released a cookbook to help educate fishermen and cooks on how to prepare lionfish. Since then, many people have spread the word that lionfish can be a tasty food source. They’re even for sale in some grocery stores.
As for you, lionfish, we know it’s not your fault that you ended up here. You’re just a hungry fish looking for a meal—or several.