Users of the Montego Bay Marine Park are advised that there has been a marked increase in Lionfish sightings throughout the park.

The Lionfish is one of the most venomous fish in the ocean.  Contact with one of its poisonous spines will inflict severe pain and swelling.  Some rare instances can lead to convulsions and/or parlysis.

The Lionfish is a carnivorous invasive specie with few natural predators.  As such, the Lionfish poses a very real threat to the successsion of native fish populations.

Since its accidental introduction to the Atlantic basin in 1992, the Lionfish has successfully distributed itself across the entire eastern seaboard of the United States and has now been confirmed throughout the Caribbean.

To monitor this threat, the Trust is asking divers along the north coast of Jamaica to report any sightings, so that efforts may be made to capture them and an appropriate response plan developed.

To report sightings, we ask that you contact us by email, or by phone: (876) 952-5619

In the event you, or someone you know has been injected by the venomous dorsal spines of the Lionfish, it is important that you immediatly apply hot water to the affected area and seek medical attention to ensure that no part of the spine has been left beneath the skin surface.

For more information regarding the Lionfish's presence in Jamaica, check NEPA's website.