This electric blue fish print set on navy, brings a story of an ‘Alien invasion' to light. A story where, perhaps for the first time in our Love Brand world, the animal has become the enemy…

Meet the Lionfish

Lionfish are native to coral reefs in the tropical waters of the South Pacific and Indian Oceans but they are invading other waters across the Atlantic, the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean and even the Mediterranean. The species threatens the well-being of coral reefs and other marine ecosystems. Their initial spread is thought to be by humans, possibly mostly by aquarists releasing them from aquariums into new waters.

The Lionfish has several characteristics that have assisted in their rapid invasion. They are excellent wide-ranging hunters, have venomous spines, few natural predators and an ability to live in a variety of coastal habitats including coral reefs and mangroves. 

Killing Coral Reefs

Adult Lionfish are primarily fish-eaters and have very few predators, researchers have discovered that a single Lionfish residing on a coral reef can reduce recruitment of native reef fish by 79%. 

Lionfish eat herbivores, and herbivores eat algae from coral reefs. Without herbivores, algal growth goes unchecked, which can be detrimental to the health of coral reefs.

Lionfish feed on prey normally consumed by snappers, groupers, and other commercially important native species. This means their presence could negatively affect the well-being of valuable commercial and recreational fisheries.

What can be done?

More local awareness and controls around alien species of fish are becoming effective at minimising invasive impacts. Lionfish are actually delicious to eat and not poisonous if properly prepared. If cost-effective harvest and distribution mechanisms are developed, small-scale fishermen and local shops and restaurants can capitalise on Lionfish while simultaneously helping to control the invasion. This in turn will improve the overall health of local marine eco-systems.

‘Eating the Alien’ in Greece

In Europe, Greece is one of the most affected countries since more than 300 marine alien species have been recorded but unfortunately to date, small scale fisheries avoid targeting alien species since their market value is minimal.

Our charity partner, The Cyclades Preservation Fund together with their partner iSEA is supporting the promotion of the consumption of specific alien fish species including the Lionfish and introducing them in stores & on restaurant menus. Additionally The Cyclades Preservation Fund are informing the public about alien species and training citizen scientist to record and monitor alien species in more depth.

We hope print ‘Fish Invasion’ helps to keep issues with Alien fish species on the agenda and perhaps if you see Lionfish on a menu when travelling in the Greek Islands, you will give it a try!