Scorpaenidae

Experts have encouraged the consumption of lionfish to control the spread of this invasive species in the seas in Turkey, saying that the fish have already been added to restaurants' menus and are being sold in big cities' fish markets.

Lionfish that feed on offsprings of other species and became a massive invasive species in the Mediterranean are now seen in the waters off Turkey's Aegean coasts, an expert has warned.

The ecosystem in Turkish waters may be protected from invasive and poisonous lionfish by consuming them as food, a study has suggested.

Turkey's Environment and Urbanization Ministry has presented a documentary that highlights how invasive species have entered and are endangering local species in the Black and Mediterranean Seas in an effort to raise awareness among the public.

Two men were rushed to hospital on Crete recently, after being stung by a beautiful yet dangerous invader. The lionfish has spiky fin rays that deliver a powerful venom which causes intense pain and swelling, and can, in some cases, lead to anaphylactic shock. Despite all of these frightening traits though, this is a very delicious fish.

"Wanted", says the poster of a lionfish on the quay side in Larnaca marina. Dead, or fried.

The presence of the Diadema setosum sea urchin and the invasive alien pterois miles (devil firefish, commonly known lionfish) have been pinpointed around the island of Rhodes. Both these species originating in the Red Sea, made their way to the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal.