FWC approves tighter lionfish restrictions

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation has approved more rules designed to stop the spread of lionfish in Florida waters.

Lionfish are a nonnative, invasive species that hurt Florida’s native saltwater fish and wildlife.

On September the 10th the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission acted to prohibit lionfish aquaculture.

Beginning December 1st Florida will Prohibit the harvest and possession of lionfish eggs and larvae for any purpose other than destruction and prohibit the intentional breeding of lionfish in captivity.

A scientific research exception will allow permitted research institutions to breed and cultivate lionfish for the purposes of researching population control.

Florida has taken aggressive action against the spread of lionfish – earlier this summer the FWC approved rules to allow divers to target lionfish while diving with a rebreather, which allows divers to remain in the water for longer periods of time.

Participants in approved tournaments and other organized events are also allowed to spear lionfish in areas where spearfishing is generally not allowed.

Florida also excludes lionfish from commercial and recreational bag limits, allowing people to take as many of the invasive fish as they can.

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