Eat the invaders
To the editor:
Lionfish can have negative effects on the overall reef habitat as they can eliminate species that serve important ecological roles such as fish that keep algae in check on the reefs. Since lionfish are an invasive species that negatively impact our native marine life and ecosystems, I felt compelled to write a letter to the editor. For me, it is frustrating to realized that we live on an island surrounded by Florida waters with a fishing community, but to this day I cannot find a local fish market or restaurant that has lionfish on the menu.
On my quest for knowledge on this invasive species I found out that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission encourages the removal of lionfish in Florida waters. And according to the Florida State and Federal Regulations, there are no minimum size limits, as well as, unlimited daily catch for the lionfish. Not only that but throughout the state of Florida there are lionfish derbies that are taking place since the lionfish can be found year-round in Florida waters.
I have tasted both the Pterois volitans, aka red lionfish, and Pterois miles, aka devil firefish, and they are both incredibly delicious. The best way I can describe a cooked lionfish fillet is, firm white and flaky with a very mild non-fishy taste that is comparable to flounder, black sea bass or hogfish. Also, lionfish contains a low amount of omega fat which makes it one of the healthiest fish to eat. Eating the invasive fish helps our ecosystem since the lionfish is eating our snappers and flounders. Hopefully, this will not fall into deaf ears since there is a market for lionfish in the food industry. Maybe soon lionfish will be available on our local restaurants menus, so we can do our part as consumers and eat more of these invaders.
Cesar Sanchez
(aka Popo)
Bokeelia