The lionfish (Pterois miles) has become an increasingly common sight in the Mediterranean and, more recently, in the Adriatic Sea. Known for its striking appearance and venomous spines, the lionfish in the Adriatic poses a real danger to fishermen, divers, and swimmers. Native to tropical waters, this invasive species has no natural predators in our ecosystem, allowing it to spread rapidly.
In this article, you’ll learn where it came from, how to identify it, where it’s found, how dangerous it is, and what to do if stung.
Origin and Spread of the Lionfish
The lionfish (Pterois miles) originates from the Indo-Pacific region, particularly the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. It entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal – a phenomenon known as Lessepsian migration. Initially recorded in the Eastern Mediterranean (Greece, Turkey, Cyprus), sightings of lionfish in the Adriatic have now been confirmed, including along the coast of Montenegro.
The reason for its rapid expansion is simple – the lionfish in the Adriatic has no natural predators, and its ability to adapt to various habitats makes it a highly successful predator.
Note on species:
According to FishBase, the species found in the Adriatic is Pterois miles (Bennett, 1828), known in English as the “devil firefish”. A similar species, Pterois volitans, is called the “red lionfish” and is found in the Western Pacific. In this article, we’ll use the general name “lionfish” since it’s widely recognized by the public.
How to Identify a Lionfish
The lionfish is one of the most distinctive fish in the sea:
- Body covered with red-brown and white zebra-like stripes
- Long, feather-like dorsal and pectoral fins
- Venomous spines on dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins
- Average length: 25–35 cm, with some growing up to 45 cm
The spines are the main danger – their venom causes severe pain and other symptoms upon puncture.
Habitat and Depth Range
Lionfish in the Adriatic are most often found in:
- Depths from 1 to 50 meters
- Rocky and coral reefs
- Around shipwrecks
- Near steep underwater cliffs and crevices
They can even be spotted in shallow waters accessible to snorkelers, increasing the risk for swimmers and spearfishers.
Diet and Impact on the Ecosystem
Lionfish are extremely efficient predators, feeding on:
- Small fish
- Shrimps and crabs
- Juvenile individuals of ecologically important species such as gilt-head bream, European seabass, and red porgy
The problem is that a single lionfish can consume up to 90% of small reef fish in a given area, disrupting the natural balance and threatening traditional fishing resources.
How Dangerous is the Lionfish?
The venom in a lionfish’s spines is a neurotoxin, similar to that of scorpionfish but stronger. While rarely fatal to healthy individuals, it can cause:
- Severe localized pain
- Swelling and redness
- Muscle cramps
- Fever and nausea
In vulnerable individuals (those with allergies, heart problems, or weakened immune systems), it can lead to serious complications.
What to Do If Stung by a Lionfish
If stung, take these steps immediately:
- Rinse the wound with seawater.
- Remove any remaining spine fragments with sterilized tweezers.
- Immerse the injured area in hot water (around 45°C) for 30–90 minutes – heat helps break down the toxin.
- Seek medical attention promptly, especially if you experience dizziness, difficulty breathing, or allergic reactions.
Do NOT try to suck out the venom or make cuts around the wound.
Do Lionfish Have Any Natural Predators in the Adriatic?
In their native Indo-Pacific range, large predators like sharks and some rays eat lionfish. In the Adriatic, no natural predators exist, which is why countries like Greece and Cyprus have even encouraged spearfishing of this species.
Control and Prevention Measures
- Educating fishermen and divers on lionfish identification
- Prohibiting the release of caught specimens back into the sea
- Controlled spearfishing (with proper safety measures)
- Informing tourists via hotels, marinas, and diving clubs
Public appeal:
Marine biology institutes urge fishermen and sea enthusiasts to report any lionfish sightings or catches to the relevant authorities, including a photo and location. Such reports are essential for tracking the spread of invasive species and protecting the Adriatic marine ecosystem.
Conclusion
The appearance of the lionfish in the Adriatic is both an ecological and safety concern. Without natural predators, this invasive species spreads quickly and disrupts marine balance. Fishermen, divers, and swimmers should stay informed, avoid unnecessary contact, and know what to do in case of a sting.
If you’re fishing or diving in the Adriatic, pay attention to new habitats where lionfish appear and report any sightings to local fishing associations. Only by working together can we limit the damage caused by this invasive predator.
📌 Related articles:
- Healthy Fish from the Adriatic Sea – Nutritional Guide
- What Eats Bogue Fish? – A Closer Look at its Predators
- How to Catch Sea Bass – Best Techniques and Baits
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