Invasive Lionfish in the Colombian Caribbean: Fishers’ Perspectives and Practices

Abstract Invasive lionfish ( Pterois volitans ) have become a prevalent ecological concern in marine ecosystems of the Caribbean Sea. Originally from the Indo-Pacific, they have no natural predators in their introduced range and they threaten reef biodiversity by eating native fish that support coral health. There are various efforts to control lionfish populations, including hunting them with spears, catching them with lobster traps, and even training sharks and groupers to eat them. Nevertheless, experts agree that eradication is difficult or even impossible at this point. While lionfish represent an international problem, most efforts to mitigate their presence are local, with a patchwork approach being taken in different communities and influenced by government policies, cultures, languages, and ecosystems. Understanding how local fishers perceive and interact with the species is crucial, as it dictates whether the fish do or do not get removed, which in turn is vital for mitigating their associated ecological threats. Using an interdisciplinary approach and perspective, this study focuses on the site of Dibulla, La Guajira, on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. Our findings reveal that lionfish perception varies among fishers and suggest how a combination of local beliefs and logistical challenges can inhibit their harvesting. This research contributes to the broader understanding of the complex interaction between human perceptions, fishing practices, and invasive species management in coastal communities.