The word is that the beautiful but uninvited lionfish have invaded our natural Caribbean waters in Belize. How did this invasion start? It seems that they were released or escaped from aquariums and have spread exponentially from there. Lionfish are native to the Indo-Pacific and are in balance with the ecosystems in that area.In the Caribbean they are voracious predators of marine life but are not on the food chain for any of our Caribbean fish. Lionfish can easily be identified by their red-and white zebra stripes, with feathery pectoral fins.
Facts:
Lionfish are members of thescorpionfish/Scorpaenidae family and subfamily Pteroinae.
Lionfish are native to the Indo-Pacific (central and western Pacific oceans) and the Red Sea.
Lionfish are also called turkey fish, dragon fish and scorpion fish.
The largest lionfish is known to be about 15 inches. However, the average size of a lionfish is 1 foot in length.
There is no danger in eating the lionfish meat once the spines have been removed
Containing the Belize Lionfish problem!
Myth: Lionfish are poisonous
Fact: Lionfish are not poisonous creatures but they are venomous.The lionfish carries its venom in its needle-like dorsal fins.
Divers must be extremely careful around the lionfish, as a sting from a lionfish can be extremely painful.
So why is that the Lionfish are a danger to our reef?
A lionfish can eat up to 20 small fish in less than 30 minutes and due to their venomous spines they stand fearless against any other sea creatures. The loss of our small fishes in the ocean causes a threat to our coral and reef ecosystem. The reef needs the small fishes and critters to survive. The only lionfish predators in the Caribbean are scuba divers trying to protect the existing ecosystem.
Lionfish hunting is morally the right thing to do!
Splash Dive Center has hosted many spear fishing expeditions this year in the hopes of saving the reef from the Belize Lionfish. The lionfish is delicious and has gained popularity in many local restaurants in Belize. However, the market for lionfish is greater than Belize.
David Johnson, Proprietor of Traditional Fisheries, the only commercial supplier of lionfish in the world was the first to ship the delicious Caribbean delicacy out of Belize to the United States. The demand for lionfish meat is growing in the U.S market. Currently many high-end restaurants in New York City, Las Vegas, Chicago, and Houston are serving lionfish meat.
Save the Reef Eat Lionfish!
Lionfish Hunting Safari
In Belize, lion fish are the only species that regulations allow to be taken with spear guns and the spear guns must meet specific specifications set by the Fisheries Department. Splash has these available for our guests.
Interested in joining Splash Dive Center in Belize for a Lionfish Hunting Safari?
Experience all of Belize: Dive or snorkel the best of the Belize Barrier Reef and atolls and explore Maya Temples, jungle trips, ziplining, river and cave tubing or learn to cook Maya style.
Safety and Quality: At Splash, low dive master or snorkel guide ratios ensure your safety and high-quality diving experience. Safety and quality are our top priorities.
Award-Winning: Recognized twice as Tour Operator Of The Year by the Belize Tourism Board, highlighting our dedication to excellence in service.
Inland Adventure and Cultural Tours: Discover Belize's rich diversity beyond its waters with our exciting inland adventure and cultural tours, from jungle hikes to Mayan ruins.
Prime Dive Locations: Explore world-class diving spots on the Meso-American Barrier Reef and three atolls, for unforgettable underwater adventures.
Professional Training: As a PADI Five Star Instructor Development Center, Splash provides courses from beginner to instructor level, ensuring you receive the best training.
Largest Dive Operator: Splash is the largest dive operator in Southern Belize, providing unparalleled access and convenience for your diving activities.
Extensive Boat Fleet: With three boats ranging from 34 to 46 feet, and the ability to charter additional boats, we offer flexibility and multiple daily destinations.
State-of-the-Art Equipment: Splash provides first-class equipment, including state-of-the-art air compressors and nitrox, enhancing your diving experience.
Community Commitment: Our dedication to the community is demonstrated by the Splash Running Club, supporting local athletes and funding Belizean runners for national and international competitions.
Testimonials
Downing Bethune
This was my fourth trip to Belize in the last five years and the second straight year I went to Placencia, last time for two weeks but this time for three. My wife didn’t come since we had so many things going on at home, so I was on my… Read more “Downing Bethune”
Downing Bethune
Susan LaDue
I cannot say enough good about Splash in Placencia, Belize. First of all, when I made a reservation for a refresher course from my home in the States, I got prompt, accurate, helpful information. In our emails, I mentioned that I’m a writer who does detective fiction and one of… Read more “Susan LaDue”
Susan LaDue
Tami Evans
It was great to be back in Placencia and to be diving with the Splash Dive Family during the 2011 holiday season. I arrived on Christmas Day, and despite it being a holiday here in Canada, I was warmly greeted at the airport by Patty who informed me that there… Read more “Tami Evans”
Tami Evans
Great snorkeling experience! Great all round service!
We‘ve just spent 4 days doing activities we organized through Splash Dive Center & they were all excellent! Not only did we do the snorkel experience on the reef w lunch on Silk Caye-which was just great and run beautifully for all our varying levels of swimmers- but we also… Read more “Great snorkeling experience! Great all round service!”
Viajeros9
Follow us
Follow us on social media and be the first to find out about our news!
