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Lionfish by the Numbers Lionfish by the numbers

50,000 eggs every 3 days, 30 year lifespan and 18 venomous spines
17 times more dense in Atlantic, reach depths of 1000 feet 1985 when first found off miami
50,000 eggs every 3 days, 30 year lifespan and 18 venomous spines
17 times more dense in Atlantic, reach depths of 1000 feet 1985 when first found off miami
photo of a lionfish
photo of a lionfish on a shipwreck

Invasive Indo-Pacific lionfish have been documented in Florida Keys, Flower Garden Banks, Gray's Reef and Monitor national marine sanctuaries. These fish wreak havoc on reef ecosystems thanks to their voracious appetite and lack of predators. Photos: Left: G.P. Schmahl/NOAA; right: Lauren Hessemann/NOAA

photo of a lionfish
photo of a lionfish being captured by a diver

Sanctuary scientists are working to control the lionfish invasion and better understand the impact of this invasive species on sanctuary habitats. You can help, too, by participating in lionfish derbies and encouraging local restaurants to put lionfish on the menu. Photos: Left: Greg McFall/NOAA; right: Ryan Eckert/NOAA