Essay On Lionfish

One of the most dangerous invasive species of today is the lionfish. Lionfish populations are growing substantially in the Gulf of Mexico and the areas that surround it. This growth is posing a threat to native fish populations. Lionfish are not native to American waters, but they seem to have all the right tools to be dominant over native ecosystems. Scientists are rushing to stop the harmful spread of the lionfish before the lionfish inflict too much damage on the delicate ecosystems. The venomous lionfish, an invasive species, has unique physical features that do not stop people from desperately trying to remove them from the Gulf of Mexico’s waters. To better understand how lionfish have become so destructive, one must start with the basics. Lionfish is a common name for the type of fish known as Pterois Volitans. It is a genus
The natural habitat of the lionfish is in and around the Pacific and Indian oceans. They live mostly in reefs for protection and a source of food. Lionfish have been found in depths of up to about ninety meters. Many also spend their lives as aquarium fish due to their exotic appearance. Lionfish are generally active at night, but they spend most of their day hiding in areas such as ledges or crevasses in rock or coral. When hunting, they stalk their prey and cover it with their fins in an attempt to corner it. When the prey is cornered, the lionfish swallow it whole. Lionfish live in a rather bold manner. When observed, they seem to ignore predators and not regard anything as a threat. This is generally not a problem because other predators tend to stay clear of the lionfish when the chance presents itself. Predators are afraid of lionfish, and the lionfish act as if they are fully aware of it. The temerity of these lionfish perhaps contributes to what makes them such an invasive and dangerous