The fight against the lionfish (Pterois volitans) in Tayrona National Natural Park has seen a new operation involving the removal, monitoring, and control of the species. The work was carried out in the Guachaquita and Cinto sectors, with the collaboration of specialized divers, members of the Taganga community, and fishermen experienced in catching this invasive species. Five lionfish were located during two dives.
The operation was supported by Corpamag, Colombia's National Natural Parks, and the CIM Caribe Foundation. Those in charge of the event compared the data with previous campaigns, in which the number of animals recorded had been... between five and seven individuals at the same pointThe presence also drew attention de peces small size and a greater amount of marine life in the areas reviewed.
Extraction, analysis and working with communities
Once captured, the animals underwent morphometric measurements to determine their total length and other developmental data. In addition, their stomach contents and sexual maturity will be studied. The aim is to expand the available information on how this species feeds, behaves, and is distributed within the protected area.
Analyses of previous catches have identified fish, crabs, squid, and lobsters , along with other marine organisms, among their prey. This ability to prey on diverse groups places additional pressure on native species and the biodiversity of the marine environment.
Ten advanced divers from the participating entities and organizations took part in the exercise . This activity is part of the measures outlined in Ruling T-606 and the Tayrona National Natural Park Master Plan, aimed at reducing the presence of this invasive species known as the scorpionfish.
Corpamag emphasized that coordination among environmental authorities, National Parks, organizations, and coastal communities is key to maintaining surveillance and control efforts. This cooperation allows for the collection of data on the presence of lionfish in different parts of the marine area.
The team considered the result as favorable Compared to other outings, although he insisted that it is not advisable to let our guard down. The observation de peces smaller and more marine life was interpreted as an indication that maintain control actions consistently can have positive effects.
Lionfish Cup: Citizen Science and Conservation
As part of these strategies, the second Lionfish Cup will be held in Santa Marta , scheduled for October 5-8. The event will bring together divers and freedivers for several days of lionfish removal and aims to involve marine users in conservation efforts.
The competition will include categories to recognize the smallest and largest fish , as well as the teams with the most specimens caught and the greatest accumulated weight. In this way, the initiative combines the removal of the species with citizen science activities and conservation-oriented diving.
The ultimate goal is to help protect Caribbean marine ecosystems and strengthen the monitoring of a species that puts pressure on native fauna. The participation of communities, fishers, and specialists is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of these measures.
The recent operation in Guachaquita and Cinto, involving the removal of five lionfish, scientific analysis, and community participation, is part of a broader strategy for sustained control in Tayrona National Park . This initiative complements the Lionfish Cup, which aims to transform lionfish removal into a tool for conservation and collective learning for the Caribbean coast.