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Lionfish on the Loose

NOAA Ocean Today

The majestic and highly predatory red lionfish (Pterois volitans), native to the Indo-Pacific, is invading Atlantic waters. The lionfish is a popular home aquarium species, and some were most likely dumped off the Florida coast when no longer wanted. The result is a lionfish population explosion that now threatens native species like snapper, grouper, and sea bass. Read "Five Invasive Species You Should Know" to learn about other marine invaders. You can also explore more videos about the ocean realm at NOAA Ocean Today.