Dataset: comparative lionfish behavior
Deployment: LSI_Reef_Surveys_09-12

Behavioral observations of lionfish at native Pacific and invaded Atlantic locations.
Lead Principal Investigator: 
Mark Hixon (Oregon State University, OSU)
Scientist: 
Katherine Cure (University of Guam Marine Laboratory, UOGML)
BCO-DMO Data Manager: 
Shannon Rauch (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, WHOI BCO-DMO)
Current State: 
Final no updates expected
Version: 
28 June 2013
Version Date: 
2013-06-28
Description

Behavioral observations of lionfish, with a focus on hunting activity throughout the day, at native Pacific (Guam and the Philippines) vs. invasive Atlantic locations (Bahamas and Caymans) to assess possible differences between ranges. Particular emphasis was placed on species hunted, time spent hunting and total numbers of kills and strikes. The investigators hypothesized that lionfish at invaded locations would have higher success at killing prey and spend less time hunting.

Related Publications:
Cure K., Benkwitt C.E., Kindinger T.L., Pickering E.A., Pusack T.J., McIlwain J.L, Hixon M.A. (2012) Comparative behavior of red lionfish Pterois volitans on native Pacific versus invaded Atlantic coral reefs. Marine Ecology Progress Series. 467: 181-192. DOI: 10.3354/meps09942

Pusack, T.J., Kindinger T.L., Benkwitt C.E., Katherine, C. (submitted) Invasive red lionfish (Pterois volitans) grow faster and larger in the Atlantic Ocean than in their native Pacific range. Marine Ecology Progress Series.

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