Lionfish Derby

Originally native to the pacific, lionfish (primarily Pterois volitans) were introduced to the Caribbean in the 1980s. With venomous spines and no natural predators here, their populations have expanded rapidly on Caribbean coral reefs. Lionfish are voracious predators, consuming large numbers of juveniles of native fish species. Their growing populations pose a serious threat to coral reef ecosystems and the many services they provide. Fishing for lionfish can be an effective way to control population growth. However, many people are unfamiliar with how to harvest them or do not know how edible (and delicious!) they are.

In order to raise awareness around this issue and incentivize lionfish culling, a team of passionate experts including local and international marine scientists, lionfish hunters, media specialists, and artists began planning Antigua’s biggest ever Lionfish Derby. The Derby, originally scheduled for June 2020 but postponed until October 2021 (tentatively) due to COVID-19, invites participants from Antigua and abroad to receive training on lionfish safety and spend two days hunting lionfish anywhere in Antigua’s waters. The reception and prize giving ceremony will be held at Nelson’s Dockyard and will include a lionfish cookoff and numerous educational presentations.