If you have ever seen lionfish videos, you have probably noticed these unique looking creatures seem to be aggressors in the underwater world they inhabit. Lionfish have a range of prey, including shrimp, lobsters, and tropical fish. Some people have made note of the problems lionfish are causing in the environment and are looking to reduce their population through hunting. While this may seem like a drastic measure, lionfish are not native to the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding areas and cause problems for native species.
What You Should Know About Lionfish
When looking at lionfish videos, notice the tentacle above the eye. This is seen in juvenile lionfish. They also have sharp fins on several locations of their body. Contact with these can lead to pain, swelling, and blistering. Infections may develop at the point of contact as well. If you make contact with these fins, immediately running the area under hot water can neutralize the venom.
Even though the lionfish has spiny fins that contain venom, they are safe to eat. There is nothing poisonous about their meat, and it can even be eaten raw, as long as safe handling methods are used.
In short, the lionfish is causing a tremendous amount of damage to the underwater ecosystems of the western Atlantic, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea. Many previously thriving fishing areas are experiencing collapse due to the invasive nature of lionfish. Hunting them, whether to eat or strictly for sport, is one way to help keep the population in check.
