May 4, 2026 — Lionfish are undoubtedly beautiful, with red, white, and brown stripes and long decorative fins. They have been a staple in aquariums for decades.
Although they are increasingly ubiquitous in the Gulf of Mexico, lionfish are not native to the area, and are a threat to the local aquatic species treasured by residents.
“They are pretty,” said P.J. Waters, a professor with the Auburn University Cooperative Extension System. “Someone put one in an aquarium because it’s pretty. But they don’t belong here.”