Business and Biodiversity Initiative

An Economist article recently outlined a new approach to dealing with introduced species.

 The red lion fish, pictured above, is, despite its small size, at the top of the food chain.  Its venomous spines mean that neither sharks nor seals can eat them.

 In its native habitats, in the western Pacific Ocean, the ecosystems have adapted to its predatory behavior.  However, in the Caribbean ecosystems are yet to adjust to the predator, and fish stocks have rapidly declined since its introduction.  A single fish can reportedly reduce fish stocks by up to 80%.  This is bad for tourism in the area, which depends on the health of coral reefs.  Efforts to reduce the impact and numbers of the alien species have, until recently failed.

 However, a company, Sea to Table, has now contacted expensive restaurants in Chicago and New York to see if consumer demand can control the numbers of this fish, which, after being de-spined, tastes like snapper.  Consumer response was positive.  That eating the introduced fish is good for the environment adds to its appeal.

The entire article is here.