Spatial and temporal distribution of the invasive lionfish Pterois volitans in coral reefs of Tayrona National Natural Park, Colombian Caribbean.

摘要: The lionfish Pterois volitans is an invasive species throughout the Western Atlantic that disturbs functioning of local ecosystems such as coral reefs via fast and intense consumption small fish invertebrates. In 2009, populated bays Tayrona National Natural Park (TNNP), a biodiversity hotspot in Colombian Caribbean strongly influenced by changing environmental conditions due to rainy dry season. So far, spatial temporal distribution P. TNNP unknown. Therefore, this study assessed abundance body lengths during monthly surveys year 2012 four (thereof two where removals were undertaken) at 10 m water depth using transect tools. Findings revealed abundances 2.9 ± 0.9 individuals ha with 20-25 cm for TNNP, hinting established, mostly adult population. Actual are thereby very similar those Indo-Pacific reef locations formerly originated from. Significant differences between different suggest habitat preferences depending on age. Lionfish highly variable over time, but without significant seasons. Removals could not reduce significantly period study. This therefore recommends improved management actions order control already established population TNNP.