Reef sharks arrive when invasive lion fish are speared for conservation

Lion fish are an invasive species that have wreaked havoc in the Caribbean and other areas of the Atlantic ocean. They are native to the Pacific Ocean where they are kept in check by their natural predators. Accidentally released into the waters of the Atlantic, they breed without control and eat small reef fish at an alarming rate. They are voracious feeders, destroying the delicate balance of ecosystems around the globe.

Scuba divers are encouraged to spear these invaders and remove them from the reefs. They are delicious and excellent for eating. Conservationists and scientists have been encouraging divers to feed them to sharks, groupers, and eels in an effort to teach the larger species that lion fish are suitable food. Although opinions vary on the effectiveness of this action, it is undeniable that predators are eager to eat the lion fish when they are speared or injured in any way.

The difficulty with eating these fish is that they have a highly venomous toxin that coats the tips of their spines. Anything trying to capture them risks a painful sting that is powerful enough to deter or even immobilize even the most determined animal. In humans, the venom can cause severe reaction and pain that is difficult to withstand. But once injured, the lion fish is less able to deliver a sting by positioning its spines in a defensive position.

These sharks are well aware that the spear means the potential for a handout and they circle this diver with great anticipation. John is a seasoned scuba diver who knows that he needs to be careful around these large beasts. Although they are not the vicious killers that they are reputed to be, they are still formidable hunters with rows of razor sharp teeth. He is careful to keep the spear and the fish safely away from him as the sharks come in to grab the lion fish. Although they have no interest in attacking humans, John can find himself in the middle of a frenzy if several sharks close in at the same time.

Feeding wild animals is a hotly debated topic. Many experts tell us that it affects shark behaviour to teach them that humans can be associated with food. Others suggest that the benefit is worth it to try to control the lion fish populations. For the scuba divers accompanying John, feeding these sharks was a thrilling and memorable experience.