Thursday, April 16, 2015

Genetics Provides New Clues about Lionfish Invasion



                The U.S. Geological Survey has reported that new genetic data suggests the red lionfish invasion in the Caribbean Basin and Western Atlantic started in multiple locations and not just one as previously believed. Genetically unraveling the progression of the red lionfish invasion and determining if introductions are still occurring could assist in guiding response and control efforts for this and other invasive species. Lionfish are native to the indo-Pacific region and are well known as a predatory invasive species that could disrupt local marine food webs. Researchers found that unique regional genetic patterns separated the studied area into northern and southern regions, with the split occurring near the Bahamas. Due to these regional genetic differences, researchers suspected multiple introductions. Studying the genetic strains across the regions gives researchers insight to how these fish are spreading. Continued releases would increase the potential for more genetically diverse red lionfish to join the current population and expand their range beyond current boundaries.  The broad dispersal of the red lionfish may in part be due to their reproductive habits. Following spawning, larvae can disperse long distances via ocean currents.  In the United States, federal and state agencies are working together to control this invasive species through the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force.
                It’s interesting to see how the genetic data was used to determine if there were multiple locations of introduction for this invasive species. This was done by comparing the different genetic strains and identifying the regional subpopulations. Similar use of genetic data could be useful in other cases that involve invasive species.


2 comments:

  1. This article was pretty fascinating because a few months ago, someone posted an article about scientists testing the DNA of everyday surfaces in New York City to see how many different heritages or races of people touched that surface and what diseases and germs were on that surface. The article you posted about is basically using the same method, but this time it is used to study and control the invasive Lion Fish species in certain areas. I'm really curious to see how these fish are showing up in places far beyond where they're supposed to be. I'm sure it has something to do with the transportation of products from country to country via ships. Amazing how genetics is incorporated into so many different scientific studies!

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  2. Very interesting article! I remember when lion fish were first discovered in Atlantic waters several years ago, it's amazing to see how fast they've taken foothold and i'm curious if they will ever be completely removed from the atlantic waters or if their residency is permanent? Time will tell.

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