Lionfish

Lionfish (Pterois miles)

• Size: Up to 35 cm

• Appearance: Striking striped body with long, flowing venomous spines on the dorsal, pelvic, and anal fins

• Habitat: Rocky reefs, wrecks, and sheltered coastal areas

• Behavior: Slow-moving and solitary, lionfish are ambush predators that hunt small fish and crustaceans. Active mostly at dawn and dusk.

• Notes: An invasive species in the Mediterranean, including around Crete. With few natural predators, lionfish populations are growing—posing a threat to local marine ecosystems. Divers are encouraged to report sightings and participate in lionfish control efforts when possible.

In Crete, lionfish have become a striking and unmistakable presence in the underwater world. With their vibrant, flowing spines and elegant, almost hypnotic movements, they add a splash of color and drama to the island’s warm coastal waters. However, beneath their beauty lies a serious challenge. As an invasive species in the Mediterranean, lionfish have few natural predators here and reproduce quickly, allowing their populations to grow rapidly. Their voracious appetite for native fish and crustaceans disrupts the delicate balance of Crete’s marine ecosystems, threatening the biodiversity that makes these waters so unique. While divers and snorkelers may be fascinated by their appearance, lionfish serve as a vivid reminder of the ongoing need to protect and preserve Crete’s fragile underwater habitats.