Lionfish are native to Indo-Pacific waters and are usually found hiding under ledges or in shallow caves at depths between 2 and 60 meters. They are diurnal, meanings they hunt both during the day and at night but often stay hidden until sunset to avoid predators. Unfortunately, lionfish have become an invasive species in the western Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. In fact, despite their menacing beauty, lionfish have become a huge problem in the Caribbean as their population has spread tremendously in just a single decade. In fact, the Science Channel has claimed they are “one of the most aggressively invasive species on the planet.” These flashy predators are considered fairly aggressive and harmful to humans so take caution when diving with lionfish and keep a safe distance.

Also known as the zebrafish, turkeyfish, or butterfly-cod, lionfish are easily identified by their distinctive red, white, and black stripes, prominent pectoral fins, and venomous, spiny fin rays. There are currently 12 different species of lionfish, two of which have invaded Atlantic waters. If you are interested in diving with these stunning predatory fish, click on the map below to explore dive sites around the world where lionfish can be found.