Biodiversity > Nature's Superheroes > The Invasive Lionfish

[Julian B.] Now back to AMNH news at 4:30. Right now we will be learning about lionfish, an invasive species. Yesterday, I was lucky enough to get an interview with invasive species expert Misael. So Misael, what is an invasive species?

[Misael] An invasive species is an animal that travels from one place to another, then disrupts the food chain. This can happen in many ways, but some come to the U.S. as released by their owners.

[Julian B.] That sounds scary! But I just heard we have a reporter in the field who is talking to someone who's trying to prevent invasive species.

[Jaiden] Thank You, Julian! And now here's a professional diver named Julian K., with a few facts about lionfish. And he will tell us how he is helping the cause.

[Julian K.] Hello, Jayden. Did you know that lionfish originated in the Indo-Pacific Ocean but now invaded the Atlantic ocean near the USA?

[Jaiden] No, I did not.

[Julian K.] They reproduce quickly and out-compete the local species and have no natural predators. To try to stop them, I am training sharks to kill lionfish and I am diving in the Atlantic Ocean to kill lionfish with this harpoon.

[Jaiden] That is fascinating! Thank you, diver Julian K. And now I'm talking with a local bystander named Salvador. Who has been trained on how to take the next steps.

[Salvador] What could I do to help? By following these easy steps. Step 1: Don't touch the lionfish; they have venomous fins. Step 2: Don't let the exotic pets get into the water. Step 3: Spread the news; the more who knows the better.

[Jaiden] Great ideas! These two are busy combating lionfish.

[All] Yes, yes we are!

[Salvador and Julian K.] Back to you, Julian B.

[Julian B.] Thank you to our reporter, diver, marine biologist, and local bystander.

[All] That is all for AMNH news. The science that smiles back!