Florida divers removed 36,187 invasive lionfish from state waters during this year’s annual Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Lionfish Challenge, according to the agency.
FWC said 533 registered divers took part in the free, summer-long competition, making it a record year for both participation and lionfish removals.
Divers can participate from anywhere in Florida and earn prizes based on the number of lionfish they remove. FWC said the program is intended to encourage divers to help reduce the impact of invasive lionfish while supporting the state’s marine resources.
The agency thanked this year’s participants and said it plans to hold the challenge again next year.
