Steven Lutz
Source: UnderwaterTimes.com
July 12, 2010

Key Biscayne, Florida - Lionfish may soon be a common feature in the shallow waters off Miami. A juvenile of these invasive exotic species was captured just off Key Biscayne's beach on Saturday, one of five sighted in the area within the past few weeks.

Lionfish are native to the Pacific Ocean and are reported to reproduce fast and eat ravenously, potentially threatening the balance of South Florida's natural marine ecosystems by gobbling up juvenile lobsters, groupers and other reef species.

Their presence may conflict with this years lobster season, as Lionfish share the same habitat with lobsters, including underwater ledges and holes, and are also highly poisonous, equipped with an array of venomous spines, each which can deliver a painful sting.

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