First Invasive Lionfish Found in Mexico's Southeast Agencia EFE
go to original February 25, 2016

Learn how to remove a lionfish via spearfishing without causing further damage to the natural habitat. (FWC Saltwater Fishing)

A lionfish, an invasive species that damages the ecosystem by wiping out native fish and crustaceans, was caught in the southeastern Mexican state of Campeche, the National Protected Natural Areas Commission, or Conanp, said.

The fish, which was about 26 centimeters (10 inches) long and weighed six kilos (13.2 pounds), was found in the Los Petenes Biosphere Reserve in the Gulf of Mexico.



This is the first documented capture of a lionfish in Campeche, the commission said in a statement.

Monitoring of the area is being stepped up to protect native species from the invasive species, the Conanp said.

Lionfish feed on native marine species, reducing fish stocks and harming fishing communities.

The poisonous fish are also a problem for the tourist industry since they can harm visitors engaged in aquatic activities.

See the original at Fox News Latino

Photo: EFE

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