Lion fish are a popular marine aquarium fish species. They are native to the tropical waters of the western Pacific Ocean. Unfortunately, they have been released into the water off the southeastern United States and are rapidly spreading through the Caribbean Sea. They are voracious eaters of small fish and have few natural enemies.

a) What would you expect to happen to the population of this species over the next few years?

b) How is this species likely to influence other species and the natural ecosystem?

c) Lion fish have poisonous spines. How might this affect their success?

d) What can and should be done about this introduction? Consider this question from an educational and a scientific perspective.