Description: The project aimed to safeguard coral reefs by refining management approaches for the invasive red lionfish. Extensive research delved into lionfish movement patterns – both spatially and temporally – to strengthen a national strategy while enhancing global efforts in mitigating lionfish impact and preserving biodiversity. Through year-long telemetry studies, lionfish movement, spanning horizontal and vertical dimensions, was meticulously tracked and analysed. This generated invaluable data sets and comprehensive maps, optimising the culling program via an updated, accessible database. Community empowerment initiatives facilitated knowledge dissemination, enhancing culling efficiency and involving over 3,300 students and numerous volunteers in diverse educational programs. Noteworthy results emerged: lionfish exhibited robust horizontal site fidelity, with 86% occasionally venturing to deep reefs (>40 m depth) before returning. Unexpectedly, natural predation contributed to 27 – 46% mortality, highlighting a positive aspect for future management strategies. Approximately 1,149 lionfish were captured during weekly culling sessions, underscoring the project’s contribution to ecosystem preservation and the refinement of national management approaches.
Duration: 18 months
