**Lionfish Consumption Urged to Tackle Invasive Species in Cyprus**
The Mediterranean region is facing challenges from invasive species, particularly the lionfish, which has rapidly established itself in Cypriot waters. Marine biologist Evagoras Isaias emphasized the importance of consuming lionfish as a strategy to mitigate its spread during a recent interview on Sigma TV.
Originally native to the Indian Ocean, lionfish entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal. With few natural predators in the area, the species has raised alarms among marine conservationists due to its predatory nature, threatening native fish and other marine organisms. Isaias highlighted that increasing demand for lionfish could incentivize local fishermen to catch more of the species, thus helping to control its population.
"This is a particularly delicious fish, which can easily be incorporated into the dietary habits of consumers in the Mediterranean," Isaias stated. Despite its reputation for being venomous, he reassured the public that lionfish is safe to eat when prepared correctly. The venom is located in the spines of its fins, allowing the flesh to be consumed once the dangerous parts are removed.
Currently, lionfish are priced at approximately €40 per kilogram, reflecting the specialized techniques required for their capture and preparation. Fishermen typically use spearguns to catch lionfish, and the skill needed to clean them safely adds to the complexity of bringing the fish to market.
Efforts to monitor and manage lionfish populations in Cyprus are underway, with research organizations and initiatives aimed at promoting lionfish as a viable food source. Carlos Jimenez, research director of the environmental organization Enalia Physis, noted that the lionfish population has become firmly established in local waters, with larger specimens increasingly common, especially at greater depths.
Researchers involved in the EU-funded RELIONMED project have explored commercial fishing and consumption as methods to reduce lionfish numbers. However, the acceptance of lionfish among consumers and restaurants has been inconsistent, posing a challenge to these efforts.
Isaias pointed out that allowing recreational divers to catch lionfish using scuba gear would not effectively address the issue, as many lionfish are found at depths that exceed the capabilities of typical recreational diving. Instead, he noted that lionfish are more easily captured in shallow waters, where they rely on their camouflage and remain relatively still.
The lionfish population in the Mediterranean consists of two genetic groups, according to Isaias. One group likely arrived through the Suez Canal, while the other may have originated from aquarium releases. He cautioned against releasing non-native species into the environment, as this can lead to severe ecological consequences. Isaias urged the public to refrain from introducing aquarium fish into the sea.
While organized removals and fishing initiatives can help reduce local lionfish populations, Isaias reiterated that promoting consumption is a crucial tool for managing the ongoing presence of this invasive species in Cypriot waters. By encouraging the local community to embrace lionfish as a food source, there is potential not only to mitigate its impact on marine ecosystems but also to create new culinary opportunities for consumers in the region.
As the lionfish continues to spread, the call to action for increased consumption may represent a significant step toward balancing the marine ecosystem in Cyprus and safeguarding native species from the threats posed by this invasive predator.