LIONFISH RESPONSE STRATEGY
WORKSHOP
6 FEBRUARY 2013
ANGUILLA
Identifying a Lionfish Response Strategy for the UK
Overseas Territories of the Wider Caribbean Region
JNCC
February 2013
Lionfish Response Strategy
Identifying a Strategy for the UKOTs of the Wider Caribbean
JNCC/UKOT Workshop
Anguilla February 6, 2013
Compiled by:
Samia Sarkis
Overseas Territories Officer
JNCC
Monkstone House,
Peterborough, UK
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ...................................................................................................... iii
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES ...................................................................................... 1
ATTENDANCE ...................................................................................................................... 3
AGENDA AND TIMETABLE ................................................................................................. 4
WORKSHOP SYNOPSIS AND CONCLUSIONS ...................................................................... 6
OVERSEAS TERRITORIES PRESENTATIONS ..................................................................... 10
OPENING STATEMENT................................................................................................... 10
INTRODUCTION TO WORKSHOP ................................................................................... 11
LIONFISH IN ANGUILLA ................................................................................................ 12
STATUS OF LIONFISH Pterois IN BERMUDA ................................................................ 15
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS ............................................................................................. 17
THE LIONFISH INVASION IN THE CAYMAN ISLANDS: An overview and possible way
forward ............................................................................................................................. 19
LIONFISH IN MONTSERRAT .......................................................................................... 21
LION FISH RESPONSE AND MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE TURKS AND CAICOS
ISLANDS ......................................................................................................................... 25
APPENDIX I- Lionfish Case Studies in the Caribbean ............................................................... 27
ANALYSIS OF LIONFISH INVASION: ............................................................................. 27
Use of the DPSIR framework .............................................................................................. 27
BONAIRE CASE STUDY: ................................................................................................. 31
Analysis of Proactive Approach in Bonaire, The Netherland Antilles ....................................... 31
APPENDIX II – Research and Tools ....................................................................................... 33
REFERENCES .................................................................................................................. 34
APPENDIX III- Funding Opportunities.................................................................................... 36
APPENDIX IV – Terms of reference for Round Table discussions .............................................. 37
ROUND TABLE 1 – State of Knowledge and Challenges: Identifying Key Issues in OTs .......... 37
ROUND TABLE 2 –Current and Potential Response Action: Identifying response actions to
challenges identified in Round Table 1. ................................................................................ 38
ROUND TABLE 3 –Addressing Funding: Identifying potential sources of funding for
implementing response actions. ........................................................................................... 39
ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This workshop and the actions which will ensue would not be possible without the engagement,
enthusiasm and input of all UK Overseas Territories representatives. Their quick response in collating
information and presenting it to the group at short notice is gratefully acknowledged. The heartfelt
discussions during the workshop contributed a great deal to making it a successful meeting, and in
identifying priorities and challenges common to all UK Overseas Territories of the Wider Caribbean
Region. Special thanks go to Karim Hodge for making this possible, and to Amanda Gregory, for her
help in organising the logistics. Photos on the back cover were taken by Samia Sarkis.
iii
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES
The invasion of lionfish (Pterois miles and Pterois volitans) in the Caribbean ocean has
recently been recognized as one of the world’s top marine conservation issues and may well
prove to be one of the greatest threats of this century to warm temperate and tropical Atlantic
reefs and associated habitats.
The ultimate goal of this workshop is to prioritise short-term actions for a more effective
control of lionfish populations in the Wider Caribbean UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs) and
initiate the mechanism for their implementation.
The UK Government recognizes the social and economic importance of biodiversity across
local communities, and is committed to combat biodiversity loss and provide special
assistance to the UKOTs to respond to the lionfish threat. This workshop is a response by the
UK government to the rapid proliferation of lionfish species in the Wider Caribbean and its
consequences, threatening the livelihood of many local communities. The workshop a)
addresses the challenges Overseas Territories (OTs) face in controlling lionfish populations,
b) identifies and prioritises key actions for effective measures, and c) identifies the gaps in
knowledge and requirements for successful implementation.
The strategic aim of the project is to build on individual territory and regional experience
(including that external to the UKOTs such as that of the US National Parks Service and the
Dutch OTs) and produce a Lionfish response plan for the UKOTs in the Wider Caribbean.
Key messages defined by the UKOTs in this workshop, will form the basis of a 12-month
action plan enabling implementation of a longer term response strategy.
The first outstanding characteristic of
this invasion is the speed at which it
has spread (Figure 1); since a first
report in 1985 in Florida waters,
lionfish populations have spread across
the Atlantic to Bermuda and then
southward to and throughout the
Caribbean Sea, extending south to
Colombia and Venezuela. It has been
recorded in The Bahamas, Turks and
Caicos Islands, Cayman Islands, Cuba,
Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Puerto
Rico, Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica,
Haiti, Virgin Islands, Belize, Panama
and Colombia. Expansion of their
current range to South America in the
near future is not unlikely.
Figure 1. Dispersal of lionfish population of the Caribbean from 1985 till 2011. Ref: http://nas.er.usgs.gov
1
There have been several stages identified to this invasion, first driven by large currents,
namely the Gulf Stream, then observed to be more radial and proximity based. Lionfish
occupancy range is limited by seawater temperatures, based on a mean chronic lethal
temperature of 10.0°C, and a mean temperature of feeding cessation at 16.1°C (Kimball et
al., 2004).
It is mostly assumed that the invasion of the first individuals was due to the release of seaaquarium owners (Whitfeld et al., 2002) and the impact of Hurricane Andrew that destroyed
sea-side aquaria, releasing numerous captive lionfish into the Western-Atlantic ocean
(Courtenay, 1995; Hamner et al., 2007). The native area for these venomous predatory
marine fish is the Indo-Pacific region where the population size is controlled by their natural
predators like big groupers, sharks and eels (Green et al, 2011). The environmental
conditions of the Caribbean region favour lionfish population growth, due to an abundance of
prey, previously not exposed to lionfish predatory behaviour, and to the lack of effective
predation on lionfish by Atlantic species (Albins and Hixon, 2011). Additionally, the rapid
reproduction rate characteristic of the species, enables a dramatic population increase within
a short space of time. The diet of a lionfish consists of juvenile reef fish. As a result, when
present in large numbers, lionfish can have a drastic negative impact on the abundance and
biodiversity of native reef fish. Some invaded regions in the Caribbean have reached densities
greater than 390 lionfish per hectare (Green and Côté, 2011). This density is much higher
than the lionfish density in their native Indo-Pacific habitat where the highest reported
densities ranged around 80 fish per ha (Schiel et al., 1986; Fishelson, 1997).
These factors give the species a potential to affect the structure and function of many Atlantic
marine communities, ranging from the sea surface to depths exceeding 300 meters, and
across habitats ranging from coral and hard bottom to artificial reefs, mangroves and seagrass
beds.
The complete eradication of lionfish in the West-Atlantic and Caribbean region is considered
impossible (Albins and Hixons, 2011; Morris and Whitfield, 2009; Whitfield et al., 2007)
The combination of overfishing of top-predators and the invasion of the lionfish can
ultimately result in the extinction of several fish species and a significant shift in species
composition (Albins and Hixon, 2011). It is important that policy or laws are made to prevent
this from happening.
The real threat caused by lionfish population growth in the Atlantic Region has triggered
much effort in research, attempting to understand its biology and ecology, and the capacity
of Atlantic reef systems to respond to the invasion. Work is in progress to assess the extent
of lionfish invasion in individual UKOTs but the lionfish spread represents a complex
challenge of managing an invasive species that originates from outside individual OT
boundaries and involves a regional management issue. Information on lionfish biology,
ecology and control in their invaded range in the Caribbean is still being gathered but
enhanced practical management approaches across the UKOTs are urgently needed.
Research and management status in each UKOT are presented during the workshop by OT
representatives, with an identification of the gaps in knowledge and/or legislation limiting
effective control and/or management of this invasive species.
2
ATTENDANCE
The workshop was attended by representative of the Wider Caribbean UK Overseas
Territories, all having to address the increasing lionfish populations in their waters.
NAME
COUNTRY
ORGANISATION
E-MAIL
[email protected]
Karim Hodge
Anguilla
Kafi Gumbs
Remone
Johnson
Randall
Richardson
Rhon Connor
Anguilla
Anguilla
Department of
Environment
Department of Fisheries
Department of Fisheries
Anguilla
Department of Fisheries
[email protected]
Anguilla
[email protected]
Sarah Manuel
Bermuda
Jim Gleason
Bermuda
Samuel Davies
Department of Fisheries
[email protected]
Bradley Johnson
British Virgin
Islands (Tortola)
British Virgin
Islands
British Virgin
Islands
Cayman Islands
Department of
Environment
Department of
Conservation Services
Ocean Support
Foundation/Bermuda
Lionfish Taskforce
Department of
Conservation/Fisheries
Department of Fisheries
[email protected]
John Jeffers
Montserrat
Department of
Environment
Department of Fisheries
John Howes
Montserrat
Fisherman
[email protected]
Jasmine Parker
Turks and Caicos
Islands
Department of
Environment and
Maritime Affairs
[email protected]
Environmental
Economist
Senior Researcher
University of
Amsterdam
Newcastle University,
UK
University of
Southampton
JNCC, UK
[email protected]
JNCC, UK
[email protected]
Arlington
Pickering
Henry Varlack
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
RESOURCE
Ron Janssen
Clare
Fitzsimmons
Fadilah Ali
Tony Weighell
Samia Sarkis
Ph.D. candidate
Overseas
Territories
Programme
Manager
Overseas
Territories
Officer
[email protected]
[email protected]
Tony. [email protected]
3
AGENDA AND TIMETABLE
LIONFISH RESPONSE STRATEGY WORKSHOP FOR THE UKOTS
IN THE WIDER CARIBBEAN
February 6, 2013
Anguilla
Tuesday February 5, 2013
17:30-19:30
Registration
Wednesday February 6, 2013
9:00 am
Opening Statement: Karim Hodge, Director of Environment, Anguilla
9:15 am
Workshop Objectives: Dr. Tony Weighell, JNCC
STATE OF KNOWLEDGE AND RESPONSES IN OTS: Limiting factors for effective control
Session Chair: Miss Kafi Gumbs
9:30 am
Anguilla
9:50am
Bermuda
10:10 am
British Virgin Islands
10:30 am
Cayman Islands
Break (11:00-11:30)
11:30 am
Montserrat
11:50 am
Turks and Caicos Islands
ROUND TABLE 1: State of Knowledge and Challenges
Round Table Facilitator: Samia Sarkis
12:10pm
Identifying Key Issues in OTs: Outlining research, monitoring, response and
challenges common to all OTs in Wider Caribbean Region;Identifying territoryspecific issues. Prioritising challenges.
Lunch with Green Economy stakeholder workshop group (13:00-14:00)
4
ROUND TABLE 2: Current and Potential Response Actions
14:00
Identifying response actions to challenges identified in Round Table 1: Assess
and specify needs for legislation, technical assistance, and/or funding, common to all
OTs in Wider Caribbean Region, and territory-specific.
ROUND TABLE 3: Addressing Funding
15:00
Identifying potential sources of funding for implementing response actions in
OTs, Caribbean Region and UK: Develop a step-by-step workplan with
engagement of all relevant parties to obtain the means (legislative, technical or
funding related) of implementing key response actions.
Break (15:30-16:00)
16:00
Round Table 3: continued
16:30
Wrap-up and Closure of Workshop
Submission of Manuscript
Thursday February 7, 2013
10:00
Anguilla Projects Open Session Start
5
WORKSHOP SYNOPSIS AND CONCLUSIONS
Representatives for each UK OT presented a summary of the known lionfish status in their
territory, the control measures taken to address this invasive issue and some of the challenges
faced. In brief, there are two main issues common to all Overseas Territories of the Wider
Caribbean Region in dealing with the impacts of the rapid proliferation of lionfish species in
the region. These are:
1) The lack of awareness and education in the general community, including fishers,
and the lack of trained staff able to deal with lionfish. In some instances, an
underlying fear inhibits the culling, taking and eating of lionfish, limiting the potential
for removal of the species either for culling purposes or for harvest and consumption
purposes.
2) The natural behaviour of lionfish, where the majority of lionfish populations seem
to be in deeper waters (100-200’) limiting the use of SCUBA or snorkel for capture of
the species, and necessitating the use of specialised equipment (including traps).
Optimal methodology for capturing the species has not yet been developed, including
temporal factors.
The main concerns in the long term impacts of lionfish population proliferations in the
Caribbean Region involve coral reef health with repercussions on the fishing industry and the
tourism industry.
Three round table discussions were facilitated by JNCC following the presentations.
In Round Table 1: Current research conducted and that required to improve control
measures was discussed, and topics were prioritised.
There is an apparent focus on population studies, more specifically on densities, in the
territories and in the Region; Anguilla, Cayman, along with the Dutch Antilles, the Bahamas
and Florida all have some data available on lionfish populations in their area. The general
need identified was the expansion to depth of these studies, as several of the territories noted
the presence of important lionfish aggregations at depth beyond 100’.
Habitat assessment has been conducted by three of the territories, British Virgin Islands,
Anguilla and Cayman. It is well recognized that lionfish occur in a various range of habitats,
and do not seem to be associated with a special niche.
Feeding of lionfish has been researched by all territories (except for Montserrat), by
analysing gut content for identification of prey. This has further demonstrated the carnivorous
nature of lionfish and their broad range of prey encompassing several species of juvenile reef
fish; many of these are juveniles of commercially important species. Most of these
investigations have been of a qualitative nature rather than quantitative, and the latter needs
to be determined in order to assess the extent of impact.
The presence of parasites in gills of lionfish has been studied in Anguilla. Future work on
fatty liver disease for the species is being anticipated. St. Eustacia is also reported to have
done similar work.
6
Research needs identified by the Caribbean OTs were identified as shown in the Table below
(in no specific order):
Description of Research
Population level studies, including density
assessment, identification of hotspots and
genetic diversity among territories and within
the Wider Caribbean Region
Developing and assessing effectiveness of
control measures
Territories most interested
Bermuda, Turks and Caicos Islands, British
Virgin Islands and Montserrat
Assessing means of introduction, using DNA
testing and investigating ballast water impact
Feeding biology, to provide insight into
economic impact
Adapting pots or bait used to maximise
capture of species, and improve control
measures
Investigating ciguatera occurrence in lionfish,
in light of creating a market demand for
lionfish
Market Research, assessing potential market
demand, and evaluating nutritional
breakdown for marketing of new species
Investigating means of larval dispersal
Anguilla
Anguilla, Bermuda and Cayman
Anguilla, Bermuda
Anguilla, Bermuda
Cayman, Montserrat, Anguilla
British Virgin Islands and Anguilla
One participant
The top 5 priorities for research (in no specific order) were:
a) Investigating the impact of feeding by lionfish; it is well known that these
species are carnivorous with a voracious appetite, feeding on juvenile reef fish. It
is recognized that this may potentially have a strong impact on the population of
reef fish, leading to a change in coral reef health (through the predation of
herbivorous fish), and to a decline in recruitment of commercially important
finfish species. By thoroughly assessing the quantity and quality of fish consumed
by lionfish species in the Caribbean, an insight into the potential impacts of the
species on coral reef health and fisheries industries.
b) Effectiveness of control measures; a number of culling measures are currently
ongoing, and assessing the effectiveness of these measures is crucial in prioritising
efforts and investments utilised towards lionfish control.
c) Investigating specific means of lionfish removal; the location of these
populations at depths beyond cost-effective SCUBA and snorkel measures
requires the development of specific traps effective at attracting lionfish with
minimal impact to other reef fish populations.
d) Identifying hot spots through population surveys; this will enable the
prioritizing of efforts and resources in control measures. The challenges lay in
that lionfish populations in several of the OTs are believed to be at depth greater
than 30m; in order to evaluate population abundance and densities, specialized
SCUBA equipment and/or adequate traps will be needed.
7
e) Investigating the potential for ciguatera contamination in lionfish of the
Caribbean; Ciguatera toxin is present in several of the Caribbean OTs, and
known to occur in some of the larger predators such as grouper. Currently, there
is a trend to encourage the harvest and consumption of lionfish, and develop a
fishery as a control measure which could prove very effective in the long term.
However, lionfish caught predate on similar reef fish as ciguatera contaminated
predators. Although, there has been no reported incident of ciguatera in lionfish of
Caribbean OTs, it is worthy investigating potential contamination and address it in
future market supply, should it prove to be an issue. Simultaneously, market
research for lionfish is required to assess potential market demand.
The challenges identified in implementing control measures were:
 Lack of data
 Funding for boat, staff, equipment
 Need to work at depths and associated lack of technology to assess lionfish
populations and collect in these areas
 Existing legislation is an obstacle for some OTs, limiting the type of control
measures- namely: the use of traps, spearfishing, netting, and designation of
protected areas.
 Optimal methodology is lacking- for example, temporal factors have not been taken
into consideration for optimal capture
 Lack of trained staff
 Lack of dedicated personnel- in most territories, the control of lionfish is conducted
by volunteers.
Collaboration among OTs was deemed productive enabling the sharing of database and
collection processes. The streamlining of resources was identified as needed, as well as
improving efficiency of the volunteer network for optimising impact of efforts.
The key message of the UKOTs was to focus on short-term immediate actions implementing
the top research priorities in order to maximise control measures.
In Round Table 2: Socio-economic impacts of lionfish proliferation and the need for their
evaluation was discussed. It was recognized that the rapid proliferation of lionfish in the
Caribbean Region has some potentially serious impacts on both the fisheries industry and the
tourism industry. For several of the OTs, fishing is an important component of the livelihood
of islanders, and tourism is a key industry for all Caribbean OTs.
There are two potential negative impacts of lionfish proliferation: 1) Fishing industry, and 2)
Tourism, obtained through anecdotal evidence.
There is some available data which may assist in qualifying and/or quantifying:
 Limited data on biomass of lionfish and population characteristics
 Stomach content
 Reports on sightings in tourism areas
 Limited feedback from dive operators
 Limited numbers of tourist interviews
8
However, this is not sufficient, and participants have acknowledged the need for a more
focused socio-economic case study. The Cayman Islands will be undertaking a short socioeconomic study, which will contribute to insight into the economic impacts of lionfish on key
industries of the island. During the workshop, other OTs have voiced interest in having a
similar understanding of the impacts, in order to engage the political will to act and invest in
lionfish control measures. All OTs agreed that they would support a quick assessment, with
the collaboration of environmental economists, using 1) tourist surveys to investigate the
perception of tourists to lionfish and their response to the presence of this venomous species;
a quick assessment of the perception of tourists to lionfish presence was suggested through
the use of a questionnaire specifically designed for this purpose. A common questionnaire
distributed to all OTs and disseminated by the OTs to the tourists was agreed by all, 2) fish
statistics on landing/catch efforts catch efforts, and 3) predation type and rates to evaluate
changes in recruitment of commercially important species, by compiling data available on
stomach content, biomass of lionfish related to populations of commercially important fish
would be feasible
The key message of the UKOTs was to first investigate the potential impact lionfish
proliferation will have on the tourism industry and the fishing industry.
In Round Table 3: Workplan for the next few months was discussed along with potential
funding applications. It was decided that:
1. JNCC would assess the possibility of undertaking a short socio-economic study for
the Wider Caribbean OTs within the next few months.
2. Should this be possible, in a first instance a tourist survey would be designed in
collaboration with the territories and environmental economists, and distributed by the
OTs, to assess any impact on tourism.
3. JNCC would acquire further information on the potential for funding through Life +
and BEST.
4. A second lionfish meeting is to be held in June 2013, in order to discuss results of
above actions, and develop a cross-territory proposal to address the lionfish issue.
5. Results of a socio-economic study, undertaken in the Cayman Islands within the next
few months, will also be shared with other OTs during the proposed June 2013
meeting.
The development of a regional proposal, including the expertise of other Caribbean countriesfor example that of the Dutch Antilles for socio-economic work- was agreed to be a useful
exercise.
The key message of the UKOTs is that funding is lacking for training staff, equipment,
boat time, compiling and analysis of data, enabling the implementation of prioritised shortterm research projects for improving effectiveness of control measures in the long-term.
Funding sources available to OTs in the recent past were identified as:
Darwin plus
Disney- funding education in BVI
PADI Foundation- focusing on environmental research
AAUS- for student funding
Governor’s office- funding Cayman environmental work
9
OVERSEAS TERRITORIES PRESENTATIONS
EXTENDED ABSTRACTS
Please note: Extended abstracts are given in the order they are presented.
OPENING STATEMENT
by Karim V.D. HODGE
Director of Environment
Anguilla
Mr. Hodge gave a warm welcome to workshop participants. After a brief introduction on the
introduction of lionfish in the Atlantic, he emphasized the seriousness of the situation for the
UKOTs facing serious ecosystem and food security threats. The lionfish, classified as highly
invasive in the Caribbean because of its adverse impacts on local fish stock, has a “sit and
wait” hunting approach, preying on large quantities of juvenile reef fish; as Mr. Hodge put it,
the lionfish assists in the displacement of different levels of the food chain by removing some
of the natural supply. He stressed that the presence of lionfish in the Caribbean UKOTs to a
Region with already degrading coral reef ecosystems will further negatively impact the
economy- especially fisheries, as well as public health and tourism- because of its high
reproductive potential, feeding behaviour and venomous spines. To date, there does not seem
to be any indication of prey preference, and over 15 species of reef fish (parrotfish, snapper,
doctor fish, wrasses, grunts, chromis) as well as crustaceans including crabs and shrimp, have
been found in their stomach content. This means that there is a need to monetarily quantify
the impact of the lionfish on the fishery sector, and investigate the social and overall
ecological and economic impacts on the fishery, tourism, ecological web and health sector.
Mr. Hodge concluded as follows: “The lionfish spread represents a complex challenge of
managing an invasive species that originates from outside individual OT boundaries and
involves a regional management issue. Information on lionfish biology, ecology and control
in their invaded range in the Caribbean is still being gathered but enhanced practical
management approaches across the UKOTs are urgently needed for each Caribbean UKOT.
This workshop is an opportunity for sharing knowledge and learning from each other’s
experiences given the clear and present challenge that we all face with regard to Lionfish. As
we will have to stay focused today while we each try to formulate a practical way forward as
to how we will address this Challenge. We are here to forge new collaboration among
participating UKOTs, we all have unique biodiversity and significant social economic value
provided by marine and coastal environments, and the growing threat of the lionfish invasion.
We must capitalize on each country’s individual experience and initiate mutual development
of a response strategy to address the problem”.
10
INTRODUCTION TO WORKSHOP
by Tony WEIGHELL
Joint Nature Conservation Committee
UK
The current workshop is a first step in developing a Lionfish Response Strategy for the
UKOTs of the Wider Caribbean. It does not intend to cut across or duplicate any existing
national or regional efforts. Key dates relevant to the development of a lionfish response
strategy are given with the proposed timeline as follows:
JNCC initial report to UK Government – late March 2013
Undertaking a review of the socio-economic and biodiversity impact of the lionfish invasion
on the Caribbean/Western Atlantic UK OTs – March to June 2013
A second OT lionfish meeting (this is optional, subject to establishing a need) to develop a
final report to be submitted to UK Government – June 2013
Final report to be submitted to UK Government - September 2013
JNCC to identify possible funding sources (UK, EU, Regional) with the objective of making
an application for funding during 2013 in collaboration with the regional OTs options and
actions to be discussed and decided at the June meeting.
11
LIONFISH IN ANGUILLA
by Remone JOHNSON and Randall RICHARDSON
Department of Fisheries
Anguilla
The Department of Fisheries in Anguilla has a staff of 9, including 1 marine biologist, 1
research officer, 3 fisheries officers and 1 fisheries assistant. It is responsible for minimizing
or eradicating threats to the marine ecosystems, among other duties. The department is faced
by a number of challenges in addressing the lionfish invasion, associated with insufficient
human resources, lack of boats, weather limiting visibility, unreported lionfish sightings and
capture, and the fact that most lionfish are found outside of the safe diving limits.
Recognizing the probable arrival of lionfish in Anguillan waters, the Department has been
preparing for its invasion since 2006, by raising awareness through posters and brochures,
collect lionfish from some fishers, survey some key sites around the coast for lionfish
presence and remove them once per week, share information with Caribbean Lionfish Colisters, and respond to calls of lionfish presence
The first confirmed sighting of lionfish in Anguilla was in August 2010. Lionfish have been
captured on near shore reefs in 10ft of water and up to 17 miles off Scrub Island in 200ft of
water. They remain solitary and have not been seen in groups. Lionfish are still seen in the
open but not too far from rock crevices. Figure 1 provides details on number of lionfish
reported and locations of sightings.
45
Maunday
40
Viceroy
35
Dog Island
Cove Bay
30
Shoal Bay
25
Crocus Bay
20
Little Bay
15
Scrub Island
10
Anguillita
5
Forest bay
Cathley H
0
2010
2011
2012
Commerce
2013
Figure 1. Number of lionfish reported in locations around Anguilla, 2011 to present
Lionfish are captured using spearguns; once collected, they are measured, sexed and stomach
content identified. As seen in Figure 2, of a total of 77 fish collected, ranging from 1-40cm ,
the most were captured in the size range of 6-10cm (28 fish) and 11-15cm (24 fish); only 5
12
fish were collected over 31cm. Of these 41% were known to be male, and 12% female;
however, sexing the lionfish is a learned skill, and 47% of lionfish caught could not be sexed.
30
No. lionfish per size range
25
20
15
28
24
10
5
8
6
5
5
21-25
26-30
31-40
1
0
1-5
6-10
11-15
16-20
Size ranges (cm)
Figure 2. Size distribution of lionfish caught in Anguillan waters, 2010-2012 (n=77)
A qualitative assessment of stomach content indicate that lionfish feed on both ecologically
and commercially valuable species (see Table 1).
Table I. Fish consumed by lionfish in Anguilla in 2010-2012, separated as ecologically and
commercially important.
Ecologically important species
Commercially valuable
Common Name
Scientific Name
Common Name
Scientific Name
Bluehead wrasse
Thalassoma bifasciatum
Squirrelfish
Holocentrus adscensionis
Yellowhead wrasse
Halichoeres garnoti
Blue Tang
Acanthurus coeruleus
Princess Parrotfish
Scarus taeniopterus
Tomtate
Haemulon aurolineatum
Slippery Dick
Halichoeres bivittatus
Bar jack
Caranx ruber
Red Snapper
Latjanus campechanus
A preliminary assessment of the perception of the general public to the lionfish proliferation
in Anguillan waters indicates that:
 Locals confuse lionfish for scorpionfish
 There is a fear of being stung, and
 Many locals remain skeptical to eating lionfish
13
Additionally, the effect on local fishers is associated with a reduced catch per effort, as there
is a need to remove lionfish caught as a by-catch from their fish traps; lionfish have been
caught in both in lobster and fish traps. There have been incidents of fishers stung at sea,
inhibiting their work, and possibly losing a whole day of work. Fishers have also complained
of hauling pots full of lionfish with the remaining of the catch being dead.
Some fishers have reverted to using lionfish as bait. Finally, there is the recognition that
lionfish consume commercial species of fish, contributing to a decrease in population
numbers for these targeted species. The Department of Fisheries is currently conducting reef
and seagrass survey (AMMP) as baseline information for evaluating future potential impacts
of lionfish on these ecosystems.
Lionfish invasion may potentially negatively affect the tourism industry in Anguilla. Tourist
may lose interest in snorkeling or scuba diving if they are only seeing an abundance of
lionfish and less diverse fish species around the sites. Other jurisdictions are experiencing
high numbers of lionfish in their reefs, namely, St. Lucia, and Bahamas, with few other
species seen nearby. This also enhances the risk of being stung and instills fear in tourists. On
the other hand, it could also be used as a tourist attraction, engaging tourists in capturing
lionfish, as has been conducted by a dive operator in Anguilla.
The community is engaged to assist by reporting all lionfish sightings to DFMR, recognize
that the species is edible, encourage resident spearfishers to target lionfish (this is illegal for
non-residents), and work towards the development of a market for lionfish.
14
STATUS OF LIONFISH Pterois IN BERMUDA
by Sarah MANUELl1 and James GLEASON2, 3
1
Department of Conservation Services, Bermuda
2
Ocean Support Foundation, Bermuda
3
Bermuda Lionfish Taskforce, Bermuda
Bermuda is a string of limestone islands on the southern edge of the Bermuda Platform, a
relatively shallow marine feature, with maximum depths of about 24 m in a large northern
lagoon, bounded by rim reefs. The Bermuda islands are approximately 53 km2 and the
Bermuda Platform, out to the 20 m bathymetric contour, covers about 750 km2. Bermuda is
located in the western Atlantic at approximately 32°N 64°W and is considered to have a
subtropical climate.
The first confirmed record of lionfish in Bermuda was in April 2001. The fish was found in a
tide pool on the South Shore. Bermuda law prevents the importation of marine fish for the
aquarium trade so unless the fish was brought in illegally, it most likely arrived in Bermuda
at some stage via ocean currents. Subsequently, reports of lionfish sightings from the public
became more frequent.
The majority of the information that we have about lionfish in Bermuda has been reported by
fishermen or the public. There have been no lionfish population assessments and most of
what we know is anecdotal. Reports indicate that the lionfish are widespread and at all
depths, from very shallow to depths greater than 60 m. Lobster fishermen have caught them
in their traps at depths between 45-60 m and specialty deep water divers have observed them
at depths greater than 60 m. These divers report that the lionfish form larger congregations at
depths greater than 60 m than in shallower water, but these congregations are patchy in
distribution.
Bermuda’s lionfish mostly occur in reef and rocky coastal habitat. Both juvenile and adult
lionfish have been observed. The largest fish caught thus far was 47.6 cm. Females with
hydrated eggs have been caught, even in winter, so it appears that lionfish are spawning year
round in Bermuda. The Department of Conservation Services’ Benthic Mapping, Monitoring
and Assessment Program surveys approximately 180 sites (consisting of reef, seagrass, algal
beds and sandy bottoms in depths ranging from 1 to 23 m) across the Bermuda Platform
annually and have not recorded any lionfish in seagrass or algal beds.
In the absence of natural predators, the only way to reduce the lionfish population in
Bermuda is through culling. The two main methods for capturing lionfish in Bermuda are (1)
spearing using a pole spear, and (2) trapping in lobster traps. In Bermuda, it is illegal to spear
a fish while scuba diving, and spear fishing is prohibited within one nautical mile of the
shore. Therefore a special permit from the Department of Environmental Protection is
required for spearing lionfish while using scuba, or within one nautical mile of the shore.
This permit can be obtained after completing a class taught by an authorized instructor. These
spear fishers are required to fly a special dive flag and a have plastic permit disc attached to
their scuba gear so they may be easily identified by Fisheries Wardens. The permits are valid
for a year and the permit holders are required to report the number of lionfish caught and the
location. The spear fishers cannot sell their catch. Only commercial fishermen licensed by the
Department of Environmental Protection can sell their catch and use lobster traps. Until
15
recently lobster fishermen were required to release their fish by-catch, but now they can
retain and sell lionfish, and are encouraged to do so.
In 2011 the Ocean Support Foundation (OSF) was founded. This NGO is dedicated to
protecting Bermuda’s reefs and oceans and their primary goal is to reduce the lionfish
population in Bermuda. They have been working on raising public awareness about lionfish
by talking to school groups and having displays at public events. They have a team of
technical divers trained for diving in very deep water who have been searching for deep water
‘hot spots’ of lionfish and culling them using spears. OSF have established lionfish drop-off
points for people who do not wish to eat the lionfish they catch, these lionfish are measured
and dissected for gut content.
OSF organized and hosted the 2012 Bermuda Invasive Lionfish Control Plan Development
Workshop. James Morris, NOAA and Lad Adkins, REEF, were the workshop facilitators.
Approximately 30 people, representing different stakeholder groups, attended the workshop.
The main goals of the lionfish workshop were (1) to review what was known about lionfish
globally, (2) to identify what we did and did not know about lionfish in Bermuda, and (3) to
determine what resources we had for lionfish control in Bermuda. Outcomes of the workshop
were (1) an outline for the Bermuda Invasive Lionfish Control Plan, currently a work in
progress, and (2) the formation of the Bermuda Lionfish Taskforce, an island-wide coalition
of stakeholders. The taskforce will produce the lionfish control plan for Bermuda.
Future planned actions for Bermuda include an online reporting system, shallow and deep
water culling initiatives, scientific research to fill in information gaps about lionfish in
Bermuda including the effect they are having on our ecology and economy, and effective
control strategies. The Department of Environmental Protection, in collaboration with some
lobster fishermen, will be are experimenting with modifications to lobster traps in order to
make them more effective at catching lionfish. In this regard caution must be exercised
because the Marine Resources Division spent a number of years working on the design of our
lobster traps so they had minimum fish by-catch. If an effective trap for lionfish is developed,
Bermuda may be able to develop a commercial lionfish fishery.
The complete elimination of lionfish from Bermuda’s reef is unlikely, therefore their
presence will be an ongoing problem. We can only hope to remove enough lionfish so that
their impact is not catastrophic to Bermuda’s corals and fish. Bermuda has developed a
lionfish control plan but we do not have the necessary resources, i.e. financial, personnel,
etc., to accomplish it. We have already discovered that it is difficult to keep the momentum of
the campaign against lionfish going, particularly as the majority of people involved in the
control efforts are volunteers, and there are no incentives.
16
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
by Samuel DAVIES
Department of Fisheries
British Virgin Islands
In 2010, BVI received a small grant from JNCC to “Enhance the capacity to combat the
imminent invasion of lionfish in the BVI”. These funds were used for necessary equipment to
capture lionfish, educational workshops and raising public awareness.
The first lionfish report in BVI was in March 2010, sighted by a dive operator at Ginger
Island. This instigated a major public awareness campaign. Several actions taken included a
collaborative approach between BVI and USVI, a lionfish marker collection, TV & Radio
show presentations, Newspaper and magazine articles, and presentations to “line standing”
businesses (such as Bank, Clinics and others) to enable the general public to recognize a
lionfish. Additionally, dive operators were trained in capture techniques using spears;
although licenses have not been renewed for the 2nd year by the Minister; and a new
organization was formed “Reef Guardians”, dedicated to education on lionfish and removal
of the species from protected areas (www.reefguardians.com). By the end of 2010, almost
100 lionfish had been sighted or caught.
BVI fishermen are capturing lionfish in their fish pots and lobster traps. It has been reported
that thousands of fish have been captured since they were first spotted in the BVI in 2010.
Fish are mainly caught on the South and North drop. They are captured in 150ft to 200 ft of
water with a few fishermen catching an average of over 100 lbs of lionfish caught per boat
per trip per trip; between 100-150 fish pots are hauled on each fishing trip. Lionfish are also
caught in-shore, in as much as 1 foot of water, but in much fewer quantities.
Small fish are discarded at sea, and the bigger fish are kept; some of these are sold by one
group of fishermen directly to customers in St. Thomas. In the BVI, one restaurant (BLU
Restaurant) has lionfish on their menu, as a main dish. Fish are sold to the restaurant
processed, for a market price of USD 5.00 per pound. The threat of ciguatera does exist, and
has not been addressed to date.
Recreational divers and local fishermen continue to report sightings of lionfish on reefs and
around rocks, with some areas reported to be hot spots. Fishermen are willing to take the
department staff into such locations to help capture lionfish. Spear fishing and net baskets are
used to capture lionfish for the most part. In two instances, lionfish (2) were captured using
handlines with baited hook; one in Anegada and the other fish at the ferry dock in West End
Tortola.
There were 3 confirmations of people being stung by lionfish: One fisherman trying to
remove a fish off his spear; a girl accidentally touching a lionfish spine; and a part-time
fisherman brushing his hand on a lionfish spine. Two people were treated at the hospital and
the other at the government clinic. All patients said the sting was extremely painful.
Other reports include a diver witnessing 2 lionfish eating a live conch out of the shell at Cow
Wreck, Anegada. Similarly, a Virgin Gorda fisherman reported spearing a lionfish off the
17
shell of a conch. That same fisherman also speared a lionfish attacking and paralyzing a Red
Hind with its venom.
Regarding natural predators of lionfish in the BVI, it is reported that at the North Drop,
fishermen fed sharks with both live and dead lionfish; it was observed that sharks showed no
mercy.
The Conservation and Fisheries Department is consistently raising public awareness on the
potential impact lionfish may have on marine habitats, as well as promoting lionfish as an
edible species. Fishermen are encouraged to land their catch and create a market for these
fish. Special days, such as Fisherman’s Day 2012 provide the venue for proper handling and
preparation of the fish. Recipe cookbooks have been published on different ways to cook the
fish. The Department believes the engagement of fishermen and the community is one
important method of controlling lionfish population.
18
THE LIONFISH INVASION IN THE CAYMAN ISLANDS: An overview and possible
way forward
by Bradley JOHNSON
Department of Environment
Cayman Islands
The lionfish invasion in the Cayman Islands started with the first sighting in early 2008 on
the Island of Little Cayman. The Department of Environment (DOE) immediately responded
by removing that fish. In the latter part of 2008, sightings were reported in Cayman Brac and
then Grand Cayman. In early 2009, after having multiple sightings around the three Cayman
Islands, it became clear that this was an emerging and expanding ecological problem for the
Coral reefs and fisheries for the Cayman Islands that needed management intervention. In
March 2009 the DOE contacted Lad Akins at Reef Environmental Education Foundation
(REEF) and Stephanie Green (Graduate student at Simon Frazer University, Canada) who
were known to be developing public awareness campaigns and strategies to deal with this
invasive species in Florida and the Bahamas seeking advice. With their expertise in 2009, the
DOE developed a public awareness campaign targeting the safety issue of their venomous
spines and further developed a training course implementing a culling licensing program that
allowed the general public to participate in the removal efforts of lionfish from our reefs
using nets only.
This licensing program was developed using a clause within our Marine Conservation Law
that allowed the Marine Conservation Board to issue special licenses to individuals
specifically for the taking of lionfish. This special license exempted persons from certain
restrictions in the law that prevented them from culling lionfish efficiently and effectively.
With this exemption, licensed cullers are now allowed to:
 Take lionfish while using SCUBA.
 Use gloves while on SCUBA or snorkel to take lionfish.
 Take lionfish from within Marine Parks and Replenishment Zones.
 Take lionfish that are less than eight inches in fork length.
Initially, this was geared towards dive companies due to the fact that these areas are visited
daily by these companies; although several residents did participate in the initial course and
this helped to spread interest in the program and concern about the invasion among other
residents. The invasion expanded into the lagoons and shallow water habitat around the
Islands in late 2009.
This culling licensing program serves as the basis for our other programs, which include a
Spearing License for residents and dive companies and a Customer Spearing License for dive
companies. The approved spears are 75 cm long (2.5 foot) fibreglass poles with a 3-prong
paralyzing tip and are imported and supplied by DOE only. Since 1986, amendments to the
Marine Conservation Law made it illegal for anyone to import any type of spearing device or
parts into the Cayman Islands. Therefore the DOE had to seek permission from the Cayman
Islands Government “Cabinet” to allow importation of the spears for this program.
Public interest in the lionfish situation grew steadily once it was shown that lionfish could be
safely eaten and was in fact very tasty. This was accomplished by DOE and tournament
organizers partnering with restaurants to offer free tastings of freshly caught lionfish at
19
lionfish culling tournaments. There are now several restaurants that purchase lionfish directly
from licensed cullers and the largest supermarket chain in the Cayman Islands, Fosters Food
Fair, recently sponsored dive companies to cull lionfish for them to sell in their stores. This
encourages divers to target areas that don’t get much culling since lionfish densities are
generally much higher in those areas.
The DOE has led various investigative studies to examine how local lionfish compare with
lionfish from other regions. These include lionfish diets via gut analysis, densities of lionfish
around each island, habitat usage of lionfish and the behaviour of lionfish when approached
by cullers. These studies were accomplished with supplemental funding from various sources
that include the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), the Darwin Initiative and The
Governor’s Delegated Fund. Most striking of the data collected showed that to make a
significant difference in the lionfish populations around the Cayman Islands, culling efforts
have to be organized, consistent and persistent. Additionally, the data galvanized the idea that
culling is the only means presently available to small island nations such as the Cayman
Islands to deploy whereby potentially reducing their population numbers and mitigating
against the grave threat of this invasive species of fish.
Future plans are to investigate lionfish behaviour in relation to divers and boats as well as
follow up on density and size class distribution work done previously. There is also a need,
once funding becomes available, to investigate the effectiveness and efficiency of employing
a small team of divers to cull lionfish in a consistent and organized manner that would build
on what was found in our data.
Note: The Cayman Islands are located in the Northwest Caribbean, roughly 430km southsoutheast of Havana, Cuba. It is made up of three islands the largest of which is Grand
Cayman. Cayman Brac and Little Cayman make up the two smaller sister islands and lie
approximately 132km and 110km respectively east-northeast of Grand Cayman. Grand
Cayman has a population of approximately 54,000 people with Cayman Brac having 2,000
and Little Cayman less than 200. Land area for Grand Cayman is 197km2, Cayman Brac is
36km2 and Little Cayman is 26km2. Shelf area for Grand Cayman is 160km2, Cayman Brac is
21km2 and Little Cayman is 26km2.
20
LIONFISH IN MONTSERRAT
by John JEFFERS1 and John HOWES2
1
Department of Fisheries
2
Fisherman
Montserrat
Montserrat is no stranger to disasters affecting its fisheries. In 1989, Hurricane Hugo caused
more than 1 million dollars in damage to the fishing industry, followed in 1995 by the
Soufriere Hills Volcano becoming active, and virtually killing the fishing industry. This
resulted in a major loss of fishing grounds, infrastructure and the cessation of fishing by some
of the most productive fishermen giving up in face of natural events. Given the fact that their
fishing areas were now restricted and/or closed, and losing their homes and most of their
gear, many fishers moved away.
More recently, in 2008 severe rough seas destroyed several boats, as well as most of their fish
traps and reefs.
Montserrat does not have many reefs or any sheltered harbours; as a result, any negative
impact on the vital fisheries sector – such as that brought about by lionfish proliferation- will
have serious consequences for fishers and the entire island.
Awareness
Lionfish were first seen in Montserrat in July 2010. This discovery created some concern as
fishers became aware of its presence in Montserrat waters and in other parts of this region. A
public awareness programme was immediately launched, in an effort to educate the fishers
and the general public on the following:





Risk of being stung and treatment needed. It was noted that all doctors and nurses in
the hospital and area clinics, should be fully versed in treatment of the Lionfish
venomous spines.
Lionfish habitat.
Reproduction rate
How to identify lionfish
Using lionfish as a food source
Awareness of the above mentioned was achieved through electronic media, and posters
placed at landing sites. Some Community groups also assisted with the education /awareness
programme. Meetings were held with fishers to reduce their risk of being injured while at
sea; one person has been affected to date.
Despite the education process, there remains much more to be done to ensure that the public
is kept informed and kept safe at all times. The fishers, including recreation and sports
fishers, are encouraged to kill lionfish and not leave it at sea; this counteracts the fear that
eggs may still be released after death, and hatch as the stage of maturation will not be known.
There have been reports by one fisherman that while killing lionfish, he observed eggs being
released. Adopting this type of preventive approach should help reduce lionfish population.
21
Observations to date
The sudden explosion of lionfish in the Caribbean Waters, especially around Montserrat and
the adjacent islands of St Eustacius, St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda, & Guadeloupe,
has triggered interest in the dispersal mechanisms of this species. Captain John Howes,
retired fisherman, advocates that a closer look should be taken at the role of the Sargasso Sea
and its associated currents in larval and juvenile dispersal of this species. The Sargasso Sea,
located within the North Atlantic sub-tropical gyre is bounded by ocean currents circulating
clockwise around a central gyre of deep waters (Figure 1). The breaking off of large rafts of
Sargasso seaweed, as they are swept by eddies and currents, or tropical storm events and
rough seas, the fact that the Gulf Stream which flows towards the Bahamas and Florida Coast
potentially enable the transport of larvae. A recent report by a commercial fisherman trolling
30miles off shore for Mahi mahi, observed 8 juvenile lionfish hiding in a 5 gallon plastic
bucket floating within a Sargasso weed raft. It is also well known that lionfish release
buoyant egg masses, which float to the surface after fertilization; fertilised eggs can then
attach to floating Sargassum and thus be transported. Based on observations of juvenile
lionfish associated with large plastic debris, and the knowledge that both larvae and eggs are
capable of dispersing great distances, the hypothesis that the Sargasso Sea acts as a gigantic
nursery ground for lionfish is put forth. Additionally, the preying of juvenile lionfish on the
eggs and juveniles of commercially important fish species such as flying fish, dolphin, and
tuna, could potentially have a negative impact on the recruitment of these pelagic finfish.
The nursery role played by the Sargasso Sea and dispersal of this invasive species using the
currents of this area is furthermore emphasized by the presence of lionfish on the shores of
the Central African Coast, Cape Verde Islands, and Canary Islands, potentially dispersed by
the Canary, Equatorial and Guinea Currents surrounding the Sargasso Sea. Research into
lionfish larval abundance in the Sargasso Sea and with associated Sargasso weed is needed to
identify the role of this area in lionfish reproduction dispersal, should be investigated.
Figure 1. The Sargasso Sea currents (taken from: www.wikipedia.org)
Local fishermen utilize the Antillean (chicken wire mesh) traps for fishing of reef species,
snappers and lobsters. Currently, lionfish are also caught in these traps. However, because of
the awareness campaign addressing the venomous characteristic of lionfish, fishermen are
22
scared of these fishes. For this reason, they either kill lionfish and throw them back into the
ocean, or on occasion if catching too many, simply throw them back into the ocean alive.
More recently, following heavy rainfall, there seems to have been a decline of lionfish caught
in traps on the northeastern side of Montserrat. The reason is uncertain, and may potentially
be associated with water run off and increase water turbulence due to weather conditions.
On the other hand, some fishers are reporting a significant increase in size of lionfish caught,
whereas others are noticing smaller sized lion fish in their traps. It also appears that the fish
are now moving into deeper waters.
Within the last 4 months, there has been an increase in the number of persons eating lion fish
in Montserrat. During the just ended Christmas /Carnival celebrations, a market day was held,
which included a public display and demonstration of how to handle the lion fish, the
cleaning and preparation, this was done along with simulation pictures of the different lion
fishes scrolled across a projector screen. Interest was generated, and more specifically local
medical doctors asked further questions on lionfish including type of venom to determine
type of treatment. Unfortunately, it was not possible to prepare lionfish for tasting on that
day.
Key Facts
Basic known facts for the species as described by Morris (2012) are:
1) Lionfish are voracious predators being shown to eat native fish and crustaceans in large
quantities, including both ecologically and economically important species like grunts,
snapper, nassau grouper, cleaner shrimp, etc.
2) They are not known to have any native predators in the Atlantic ocean.
3) They are equipped with venomous dorsal, ventral and anal spines, which deter predators
and can cause painful wounds to humans..
4) Lionfish are capable of reproducing year-round with unique reproduction mechanisms not
commonly found in native fishes (females can reproduce every 4 days).
5) They are relatively resistant to parasites, giving them another advantage over native
species.
6) Lionfish have a rapid growth rate, able to outgrow native species with whom they compete
for food and space.
7)They can survive for up to 45 days without eating (enabling the species to be transported
over vast distances, without food).
The proliferation of lionfish raises concerns as the following risks and impacts have been
identified (Morris, 2012):
The diet of the lionfish includes over 40 species of fish and crustacean species; this broad diet
suggests that this invasive species may become a real threat to many native reef fish
populations through direct predation, as well as competition for food resources with native
fish species.
Researchers have reported that within a short period after lionfish are introduced into a new
area, survival of native reef fishes declines by about 80 percent.
23
Further, the voracious feeding behaviour of the lionfish may impact the abundance of
ecologically important species such as parrotfish and other herbivorous fishes that keep
seaweeds and macro algae from overgrowing corals.
Eradicating lionfish in the Atlantic is virtually impossible, however, every effort must be
made to reduce the population at the National and Regional levels. Other jurisdictions have
demonstrated that culling and proactive awareness raising has helped in controlling the
lionfish population; more specifically, St. Eustacius started educating young school children,
fishers and the general public, a full year prior to the first sighting of lion fish in the National
Marine Park (STENAPA) and are culling lionfish on a daily basis.
Future awareness raising activities include a Science Week in February 2013, including a fun
day for children. This will include demonstration on handling, cleaning preparing and eating
lion fish; while this event targets mainly children, a number of parents usually attend. The
aim is to increase the consumption of lionfish by people, thus increasing the income of fishers
and help to reduce the overall population of lionfish.
Actions will continue to be implemented focusing on: 1) other means to reduce the
population in the future, 2) Staging lionfish tournaments, giving prizes for the largest lionfish,
the most fish caught and the most total weight, 3) continue to encourage fishers to target
lionfish with using traps, and encourage culling by diving and spear fishing, 4) provide
incentives to target lionfish through the offering of a bounty for each lion fish, of cleaned
packaged filleted lionfish for the market (especially when other fish is scarce), and offer
lionfish days (such as sampling or barbeques) especially during fishing tournaments.
24
LION FISH RESPONSE AND MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE TURKS AND
CAICOS ISLANDS
by Jasmine PARKER
Department of Environment & Maritime Affairs
Turks and Caicos Islands
Introduction
The Turks and Caicos islands (TCI) are located 550 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, east
of Cuba and the island of Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti.) The Turks and Caicos
Islands consist of 40 islands and cays, eight of which are inhabited. The islands are home to
roughly 30,000 full time residents. There are over 30 Protected Areas, one third of which
consist of Marine protected Areas.
The health of the marine ecosystem is of importance to the economy of the Turks and Caicos
Islands which relies on fisheries and tourism. The arrival and expansion of populations of the
invasive lionfish is presenting the island with a significant problem. Lionfish are carnivores;
they eat juvenile reef fish (including some commercially important species) and small
crustaceans. They reproduce rapidly, and when present in large numbers they can have a
devastating impact on the reef biodiversity, both on the abundance of fish and on the quality
of coral reefs. The corals are impacted since the lionfish eat algal grazing fish that help
maintain the balance between algae and coral. The rapid reproduction potential of the
lionfish, their ability to seriously depopulate coral reef ecosystems of other fish, and their
direct impact on humans is a cause of concern for tourism, the environment and fisheries.
Environment
Coral reefs are fragile organisms and even seemingly diminutive imbalances can result in
rapid degradation. Once a coral reef starts to degrade, it usually leads to extensive mortality
and usually does not recover to even a fraction of what it was before. Coral reefs provide a
habitat for other marine life, and negative impacts on a coral reef will have wide-spread
impact to other species that use it as a nursery, food and a place to live. The end result is
interruption of the flow in the reef ecosystem. Turks and Caicos Islands have over 30
protected areas and one third of these consist of marine protected areas. Essentially, this
means lionfish are protected in TCI because fishing is prohibited in the protected areas.
However, the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) have created a
permit system which gives special permission to catch only lion fish in the Marine Parks.
Fisheries
The fishing industry in TCI accounts for the second largest industry generating over $3
million annually. Fishing plays an integral role in providing the inhabitants of TCI with a
source of income as well as providing them with food. If the lionfish population is left
unchecked, there will be a large deduction in the numbers of reef fish, which will impact
local livelihoods and any person who relies on fisheries for food security.
25
Tourism
Tourism is the largest industry in TCI; and tourists mainly come to TCI for scuba diving. If
lionfish reduce the diversity of the reef fish and the quality of the corals is poor due to algal
overgrowth, this will affect watersports tourism. In addition, if lionfish are present in large
numbers this will increase the fear of being ‘stung’ by a toxic fish and may reduce
watersports tourism. A reduction in tourism will have an adverse impact on the local
economy.
Action Plan and Strategies for Lionfish Control in TCI
Turks and Caicos Islands have been proactive in controlling lionfish. The department of
Environment & Maritime Affairs has realized that it takes a community effort to effectively
control the lionfish invasion in TCI. Programmes consist of derbies, public awareness data
collection, permits to catch lionfish and marketing strategies, more specifically there are:
A. Volunteer Based Programmes
 mainly comprising of Dive Operators in aiding catching of lionfish. In turn data is
collected by the department
B. Outreach and Education
 DEMA have created information posters and brochures educating the public about
lionfish
 Attend Local radio and television shows to desensitize the public about lionfish
 Lionfish cookbook
 Newspaper Articles
C. Scientific Research
 Encourage Dive Operators and Volunteers to adopt a site in the Princess Alexander
National Park for data collection
 Develop surveys to determine the local community attitude towards lionfish
 Focus on data collection particularly stomach content
The Turks and Caicos Islands have many challenges in controlling lionfish as the Fisheries
protection Ordinance prohibits the use of spear guns which is the most effective way of
catching lionfish. In addition, changes in legislations would be a positive step in maintaining
the effective control of lionfish. Furthermore, the department is short of scientific staff which
makes it difficult for data collection and research. However, dependent on funding DEMA
have plans on hiring two Lionfish Officers for the main purposes of data collection and
catching lionfish in the National Parks. Furthermore, DEMA will continue with former
strategies for controlling lionfish in the past.
26
APPENDIX I- Lionfish Case Studies in the Caribbean
ANALYSIS OF LIONFISH INVASION:
Use of the DPSIR framework
Taken from: Lionfish, an invasive species in the Caribbean. T.van der Meulen and D. Klip. October
2012.
Van der Meulen and Klip analyse the lionfish as an invasive species using the DPSIR framework
(Drivers, Pressures, State Changes, Impacts, Responses).
A. DRIVERS
Direct drivers:
a) Aquarium species trade- Releases by aquarium fish owners, as fish became too big for
aquaria.
b) Natural Events- Hurricane Andrew destroyed a seaside aquarium in Florida in 1992, where
lionfish escaped. Genetic evidence has been found that strongly suggests that the lionfish
population originated from either a few single introductions or multiple introductions of
individuals with the same haplotype and closely related DNA (Hamner et al., 2007).
Indirect Drivers:
a) Climate change- Distribution limited by temperature. If sea surface temperature increases
because of climate change, extent of occupancy will increase.
b) Fishing industry- Natural predators of the lionfish like sharks, eels and big groupers are
important for controlling the lionfish population by preying on lionfish. Fishing industry
targeting these species contribute to intensity of lionfish problem.
B. PRESSURES
a) Predation and competition- In brief, lionfish predate on more than 40 species of small
reef-fish and juvenile large fish, from over 20 families (Albins and Hixon, 2011). The
predation on herbivorous species, like the parrotfish, may lead to an ecological imbalance
between corals and seaweed (Albins and Hixon, 2008).
b) Reduction of net recruitment- It has been proven that lionfish reduce the recruitment of
Atlantic coral-reef fishes (Albins and Hixon, 2008). Direct predation by lionfish on
economically important species, such as juvenile yellowtail snapper and juvenile Nassau
grouper, exemplify this pressure type (Morris and Akins, 2009). Lionfish also have an
indirect effect on (economically-important) native species through interspecific
competition, by decreasing the available biomass of prey.
c) Various predation strategies- Camouflage, static movement, ambushing, corralling prey,
positioning through altering its center of buoyancy are all used. Pectoral fins are also
used to flush benthic invertebrates from the substrate by palpation (Fishelson, 1975 cited
in Morris and Akins, 2009). This feeding strategy is particularly useful to prey on crabs
and the juvenile spiny lobster Panulirus argus, an important subsistence and commercial
fishery species (Albins and Hixon, 2008).
d) Prey size- Lionfish can prey on fish ranging up to 48% of its total length (40-45cm), with
a mean ratio of prey size (total length) to be 14,5% (Morris and Akins, 2009). Other
27
authors state that it’s not unusual for lionfish to consume prey up to 2/3 of their body size,
and especially juvenile lionfish tend to eat relatively large prey (Albins and Hixon, 2008).
e) Fishing of commercial species- excessivefishing of commercial species, i.e. sharks,
yellowtail snapper , (Nassau) groupers, porgies, triggerfish, jacks, tilefishes, grunts,
spadefishes, wrasses and sea basses reduces interspecific competition leaving a niche
vacancy in the reef fish community (Huntsman et al., 1999). Direct predation on the
lionfish by, for example sharks, is also reduced.
C. STATE CHANGES
a. Modification in trophic cascade- The change in relative abundance of biomass prey
and predator type implies a modification of the trophic cascade. This may potentially
lead to extinction in the long term of certain small-bodied fish and thus loss of species
richness, i.e. biodiversity (Albins and Hixon, 2011). It also affects larger-bodied fish
as predation deters them from reaching maturity, and hence negatively affects
recruitment. Figure 2 clearly demonstrates the difference in recruitment of juvenile
reef fish on experimental patch reefs with and without lionfish.
Figure 2. Recruitment (mean ± SE) of juvenile fish to experimental patch reefs (Albins and Hixon, 2008)
Note: Lionfish were transplanted onto 10 reefs, with 10 other reefs serving as lionfish-free controls.
Recruitment was measured as the number of small fish present on each reef at the beginning of the
experimental period subtracted from the number of small fish present on each reef during subsequent censuses
(i.e. net accumulation of new recruits)(Albins and Hixon, 2008).
Finally, the decline of other mid-sized predators (via predation or competition) creates a
destabilizing effect, potentially affecting other reef fish populations. As seen in Figure 3
below, percent change of small-bodied prey species between 2008 and 2010 in the Bahamas
approximated 60%, that of larger-bodied competitors 50%, and larger-bodied noncompetitors 40% (Green et al., 2012). This will have an effect on species composition.
28
Figure 3. The percent change in biomass of native fishes between 2008 and 2010 on Bahamas coral reef
sites. Points represent medians, 95% confidence intervals). The dashed line indicates no change in biomass.
(Green et al., 2012).
b. Coral reef decline- Predation of parrotfish will affect coral recruitment, and lead to
the replacement of corals by algae. This will in turn exacerbate loss of biodiversity as
coral reefs are critical to native fauna. Additionally, anthropogenic factors, such as
coral bleaching, currently affecting coral health in several areas of the Caribbean will
further compound the problem (Morris and Whitfield, 2009).
D. IMPACTS
a. Fishing Industry- It is likely that commercial fisheries will suffer from the abundance
of the lionfish, as recruitment of commercial species is reduced (Morris and
Whitfield, 2009).
b. Creating an alternative fishery- Catching lionfish will be a new kind of fisheries,
which can possibly create an economic return. There are uncertainties due to the
relatively small fillet size and to the means of harvest. Diving is labour intensive and
cost-ineffective. Training to future fishermen would be required to avoid
envenomation.
c. Aquarium fish trade- The Caribbean coral-reef aquarium fish trade may also be
adversely affected, as 7 of the 20 top ornamental species collected in the Western
Atlantic are being preyed upon by lionfish and will be less abundant (Bruckner, 2005;
Morris and Akins, 2009). Furthermore, lionfish was considered a top ornamental,
however, sales of lionfish have dropped since increased awareness of its invasion.
d. Tourist industry- The loss of coral reefs, due to the dominance of algae, would
potentially cause a decline in marine tourism. Caribbean countries, derive on
average, half of their GDP from the tourism industry, with coral reefs and diving
being a key component of reef tourism and recreation. It has been estimated that a 25% loss of growth in the Caribbean diving industry due to reef degradation would
result in a region-wide loss of annual net benefits of between 100 and 300 million
USD.
e. Venomous health hazard- The lionfish is venomous and higher densities increase the
risk of human envenomation.
E. RESPONSES
Several countries have organised means of removing lionfish using various incentives,
such as:
a. Hunting partiesb. Bounty for lionfishc. Local food industry- promoting lionfish in restaurants and hotels; developing recipe
books.
Other responses involve:
d. Foster predators to eat lionfish- Divers catch lionfish and offer the wounded or dead
lionfish to these predators to train them in eating the lionfish.
29
e. Research and awareness- Developing a strategy using several activities and
information about lionfish capture and removal.
f.
Conservation of lionfish predators- Protection of groupers and sharks through the
establishment of MPAs. Thirty-eight countries in the Caribbean and tropical NorthWestern Atlantic are now protecting their coastal areas from fisheries (Sealey and
Bustamente, 1999). The effective conservation of predatory fish and other largebodied size fish by MPAs has been documented (Halpern, 2003). It is believed that
MPAs may be the most effective way to manage or mitigate the lionfish invasion
(Albins and Hixon, 2011).
Developing further responses and using the developed responses can contribute in controlling the
population size. It is not certain that these various responsive methods and techniques will result in an
overall population decrease but it is important to use these different responses in order to attempt
mitigating the environmental impact of lionfish in the Caribbean and the possible catastrophic effects
on corals and fish species.
30
BONAIRE CASE STUDY:
Analysis of Proactive Approach in Bonaire, The Netherland Antilles
Taken from: Lionfish of the Caribbean: Trouble in Divers’ Paradise. B. Dekker and A. Waming.
October 2012.
Bonaire’s economy is mostly driven by diving tourism. More than half (55%) of tourists are divers,
and 65% (38% directly and 27% indirectly) of local people are dependent on tourism (38% directly
and 27% indirectly). Coral reefs are considered among the healthiest in the Region, with coral cover
approximating 40%.
The first stage of dispersal was mainly driven by large currents (Gulf Stream) whereas the second
stage was more radial and proximity based (Figure 4). The lionfish invaded Bonaire in the second
stage, and was first reported in 2009.
Figure 4. Invasion Stage Map (Johnston and Purkis, 2011)
Note: The first stage of dispersal was mainly driven by large currents (Gulf Stream) whereas the second stage was more
radial and proximity based. The lionfish invaded Bonaire in the second stage. The third stage shows an invasion of the
coast of Florida back to the place where the lionfish presumably were released. This event is current driven. (Johnston
and Purkis, 2011)
The DPSIR framework was used to analyse the invasion of lionfish around Bonaire; it was found to
be a useful tool for organising information on biological invasion, develop or evaluate management,
and identify stakeholders
Responses by Bonaire:
a) Creating awareness of the problem- local government of Bonaire allowed spear fishing which
was first forbidden in the MPA
b) Lionfish control by catching and elimination-Using modified spears by local stakeholders and
volunteers.
31
c) Assistance from SCUBA divers- Divers mark area where lionfish is potted for park rangers to
catch. Decrease seen in lionfish abundance by 2-8 times after 1 year
d) Recreational hunting- tourists are allowed to buy a permit to spear lionfish. Stimulating local
economy, becoming an alternative fishery.
e) Attraction for tourists- promoting serving in restaurants as a delicacy favoured by tourists.
Assessment of responses to date: On short term, approach seems successful. Lionfish plan of
Bonaire has lead to a decline in lionfish abundance (4.2 times less, with a density approximating
0.45g/m2), weight (33% less) and size (15% less) compared to neighbour island Curacao (density of
1.9g/m2) (see Figure 5) (de Leon et al., 2012)
Figure 5. A comparison of the abundance, weight and size of Lionfish populations between Curacao and Bonaire after
two years of eradication on Bonaire (de León et al, 2012)
32
APPENDIX II – Research and Tools
The following is intended as a first step in identifying questions to be answered and investigating
means of improving response and control measures to mitigate lionfish invasion. Others will be
identified and added following Round Table Discussions during the workshop.
Taken from Morris (2012), van der Meulen and Klip (2012).

Are there source and sink populations of lionfish?

Where do lionfish spawn? What factors affect reproduction?

Genetic research for assessing dispersal. This coupled with oceanographic current patterns
can provide sound data.

Larval connectivity models for reef fishes providing insight into lionfish larval dispersal and
potentially valuable for predicting spread of lionfish

Use of oceanographic models to hindcast dispersal pathways for lionfish larvae

Effectiveness of MPAs

Impact of lionfish on commercial fisheries

Evaluation of relationship of lionfish abundance and coral reef decline

Preliminary work on P. volitans indicates the presence of antitumor effects in its venom,
which would be a promising application for cancer research.

DEFINITE- Adaptive software product. Tool kit of methods to visualise and analyse results,
and support problem definition- to process different types of information including various
multicriteria methods as wells as Cost-Benefit and Cost-Effectiveness analysis.

Environmental Economics valuable for assessing socio-economic and loss of biodiversity
impacts
RELEVANT LINKS: (taken from Morris, 2012)






Lionfish research symposia- yearly at GCFI . Proceedings at
http://www.gcfi.org/Lionfish/Lionfish.html
List of researchers and topics compiled – to promote coordination among researchers.
Information [email protected]
NOAA Lionfish Website www.ccfhr.noaa.gov/stressors/lionfish.aspx
USGS Lionfish Factsheet:www.nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/factsheet.aspx?speciesid=963
REEF lionfish Research Program:www.reef.org/programs/exotic/lionfish
Oregon State University, Hixon Laboratory. Hixon.scienc.oregonstate.edu/content/highlightlionfish-invasion
33
REFERENCES
Note: Literature cited in background material provided
Albins A., Hixon A. (2008). Invasive Indo-Pacific lionfish Pterois volitans reduce recruitment of
Atlantic coral-reef fishes, Mar Ecol Prog Ser, Vol. 367: 233–238
Albins A., Hixon A. (2011). Worst case scenario: potential long-term effects of invasive predatory
lionfish (Pterois volitans) on Atlantic and Caribbean coral-reef communities, Springer Science
Ahrenholz, D.W. and Morris J.A. (2010). Larval duration of the lionfish, Pterois volitans, collected
from the Bahamian Archipelago. Environ Biol Fish 88(4):305-309
Bruckner A. W. (2005). The importance of the marine ornamental reef fish trade in the wider
Caribbean. Rev Biol Trop 53:127-137
Courtenay W.R. (1995). Marine fish introductions in southeastern Florida. Am Fish Soc Introduced
Fish News 14:2–3
Dekker B. And Waming A. (2012). Lionfish of the Caribbean: Trouble in Divers’ Paradise. Student
Report. Institute for Environmental Studies, Amsterdam. The Netherlands. 27 pages
De León, R., Vane, K., Vermeij, M., Bertuol, P. and Simal, F. (2012). Overfishing Works: A
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Lionfish Control Efforts between Bonaire and Curaçao,
(unpublished)
Fishelson L. (1997). Experiments and observations on food consumption, growth and starvation in
Endrochirus brachypterus and Pterois volitans (Pteroinae, Scorpaenidae). Environ Biol Fish 50:391
Green S., Akins J., Côté I. (2011). Foraging behaviour and prey consumption in the Indo-Pacific
lionfish on Bahamian coral reefs, Mar Ecol Prog Ser, Vol. 433: 159–167
Green S.J., Akins J.L., Maljkovic A., and Côté I. (2012). Invasive lionfish drive Atlantic coral reef
fish declines. PLos ONE 7(3), e32596
Halpern B.S. (2003). The impact of marine reserves: do reserves work and does reserve size matter?
Ecol Appl 13:S117–S137
Hamner R.M., Freshwater D.W., and Whitfield P.E. (2007). Mitochondrial cytochrome b analysis
reveals two invasive lionfish species with strong founder effects in the western Atlantic. J Fish Biol
71:214–222
Huntsman, G.R., J. Potts, R.W. Mays, and D. Vaughan. (1999.) Groupers (Serranidae,
Epinephelinae): endangered apex predators of reef communities. Am Fish Soc Symp 23:217-231.
Johnston, M.W. and Purkis, S.J. (2011). Spatial analysis of the invasion of lionfish in the western
Atlantic and Caribbean, Mar Poll Bull, 62: 1218–1226
Kimball M.E., Miller J.M., Whitfield P.E, Hare J.A. (2004). Thermal tolerance and potential
distribution of invasive lionfish (Pterois volitans/miles complex) on the east coast of the United
States. Mar Ecol Prog Ser 283:269–278
34
Lesser M.P., and Slattery M. (2011). Phase shift to algal dominated communities at mesophotic
depths associated with lionfish (Pterois volitans) invasion on a Bahamian coral reef. Biol inv
13:1855-1868
Morris J.A. Jr. (2012. Invasive Lionfish: A guide to control and management. GCFI, Special
Publication Series, Number 1, 113 pages
Morris J.A. Jr. (2009). The Biology and Ecology of Invasive Indo-Pacific Lionfish. Ph.D.
Dissertation. North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina U.S.A.
Morris J.A. Jr. And Akins J.L. (2009). Feeding ecology of invasive lionfish (Pterois volitans) in the
Bahamian archipelago. Envir Biol Fish 86:389-398
Morris, J.A., Jr., and Whitfield P.E.. (2009). Biology, Ecology, Control and Management of the
Invasive Indo-Pacific Lionfish: An Updated Integrated Assessment. NOAA Technical Memorandum
NOS NCCOS 99. 57 pp.
Schiel D.R., Kingsford M.J., Choat J.H. (1986). Depth distribution and abundance of benthic
organisms and fishes at the subtropical Kermadec Islands. N Z J Mar Freshw Res 20:521–535
Sealey S., Bustamente G. (1999). Setting geographic priorities for marine conservation in Latin
America and the Caribbean. The Nature Conservancy, Arlington, Virginia. US. 125 p.
Van der Meulen T., and Klip D. (2012. Lionfish: an invasive species in the Caribbean. Unpublished.
18 pages
Whitfield P.E., Hare J.A., and David A.W. (2007). Abundance estimates of the Indo-Pacific lionfish
Pterois volitans/ miles complex in the Western North Atlantic. Biol Invasions 9:53
35
APPENDIX III- Funding Opportunities
A. Life plus- Eligible to member states of the European Union. How can it extend to OTs? Life
plus co-finances projects that contribute to the development of innovative policy approaches,
technologies, methods and instruments, the knowledge base as regards environment policy
and legislation, and the monitoring of environmental pressures (including the long-term
monitoring of forests and environmental interactions).
B. BEST- The “Voluntary scheme for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Territories of
European Oversea. aims to promote conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and
ecosystem services, including ecosystem-based approaches to climate adaptation and
mitigation.s. EU Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) are closely associated to the
EU, are part of 4 EU Member States (Denmark, France, the Netherlands, the United
Kingdom), and are supported by the EU Development Cooperation Policy. This applies to all
UKOTs of the Wider Caribbean Region.
C. Darwin plus- The Overseas Territories Environment and Climate Fund (known as ‘Darwin
Plus') brings together existing UK Government funding for OT environmental projects into
one place. It operates under the banner of Defra's Darwin Initiative, and brings together
existing UK Government funding on OT environmental projects from Defra (previously
through the Darwin Initiative) and DfID and the FCO (previously through OTEP).
D. Caribbean Biodiversity Challenge (includes specific Caribbean countries)- Multi-national
conservation campaign coordinated by the Nature Conservancy. Countries participating are
dedicated the funds solely to the creation and management of new and existing protected
areas- including protecting fish stocks and tourism-related livelihoods. World Bank awarded
$8.75 million towards this fund.
E. CARICOM- Regional economic integration organization, comprises 15 Caribbean States.
Montserrat is the only UKOT being a member state of CARICOM. The Caribbean Regional
Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) is a regional fisheries body established by the CARICOM
states to promote sustainable use of the living marine and other aquatic resources by the
development, efficient management and conservation of such resources through cooperation
and consultations. Anguilla and Montserrat are member states of CRFM. CRFM contributes
significantly to all aspects of fisheries development and management including data
collection, analysis and data management research, dissemination of scientific and technical
information, strengthening national capacity for management and preparation of national
fisheries management plans. There is a long term strategic plan, which includes fisheries.
F. Other sources to be investigated: Caribbean Development Bank.
36
APPENDIX IV – Terms of reference for Round Table discussions
ROUND TABLE 1 – State of Knowledge and Challenges: Identifying Key Issues in OTs
Main questions: How to prioritize challenges faced by OTs to control lionfish? Outline research,
monitoring, and challenges in each OT. Assess common points, and identify territory-specific point.
1. Make a list of:
a. research previously or currently conducted in OTs- Specify assistance given (either
within territory or outside territory)
b. Monitoring actions/programmes in OTs- specify assistance/collaboration
c. Control measures; including frequency, duration- specify assistance/collaboration
d. Documents/pamphlets/data produced and available
2. Identify priorities for each OTs
a. Assess common priorities for UKOTs
3. Make a list of challenges for each OT encountered or anticipated in:
a. Research
b. Monitoring
c. Control measures
4. Identify challenges common to OTs
5. Prioritise common challenges and territory-specific challenges considering the following:
a. Will research currently conducted assist in developing new measures? Implement
existing measures more effectively? Anticipated timeframe to obtain results and
apply?
b. What information has been obtained from monitoring? Has this information assisted
in improving control measures? If not, why? What is the anticipated timeframe
required for this type of monitoring to provide useful information? Should the goals
of monitoring be reviewed?
c. Have control measures shown an increase in effectiveness since started? Are the same
measures anticipated to make a difference in the next few years? Should additional
control measures be considered either to supplement or replace existing ones?
6. Formulate Key Message on research/monitoring and control measure priorities, and on Key
Challenges to be delivered to UK
37
ROUND TABLE 2 –Current and Potential Response Action: Identifying response actions to
challenges identified in Round Table 1.
Main questions: Can we specify and prioritise the potential threats posed by lionfish in the territories,
and needs of OTs to effectively address the challenges faced? Can we improve legislation and policy
based on socio-economic and biodiversity impacts of the lionfish invasion? Are there legislative tools,
technical tools or funding tools which can assist? Do new tools (legislative and technical) need to be
developed?
1) Are there any tools (including environmental economic tools) currently used or which
could be used to quantify the threats posed by lionfish, with regards to:
a. Biodiversity
b. Tourism
c. Fishing
2) Keeping in mind the challenges identified, list for each OT existing:
a. Legislation relevant to lionfish issue
b. Technical know-how available in each OT
c. Funding available: consider core government funding, personnel availability,
corporate funding, NGO personnel and funding.
3) Identify gaps in legislation and technical knowledge
4) Prioritise gaps which need to be filled in legislation or technical knowledge
a. Assess any common gaps among OTs
b. Identify actions needed to address these gaps- consider territory specific action
and/or collaborative action
5) Identify other sources of technical assistance in Region and Overseas
6) Summarise Key Legislative and Technical gaps and Response Actions required in
UKOTs for effective response to lionfish threat, to be delivered to the UK
38
ROUND TABLE 3 –Addressing Funding: Identifying potential sources of funding for
implementing response actions.
Main questions: What are the sources of funding available to Wider Caribbean UKOTs? Can we
develop a workplan to obtain the means (legislative, technical or funding related) of implementing key
actions?
1. Identify potential external sources of funding for OTs
a. UK funding
b. EU funding
c. Caribbean funding
2. Identify any previous experience in OTs in obtaining funds from overseas agencies; assess
most suitable funding source and most likely for successful application
3. Formulate work-plan by considering:
a. Partners involved- OTs, organisations within OTs, contact name and/or lead for each
organisation
b. Work proposed based on prioritised actions
c. Regional involvement as technical assistance, proposal partners or other
d. Timeframe for proposal submission
e. Required assistance in proposal writing
4. Summarise Work-Plan message to be delivered to UK
39
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