Lionfish eat fish who eat blue-green algae, so blue green algae is not being harvested (eaten) as quick as it did before the lionfish invasion in 2008, the blue-green algae is becoming toxic.
Not only are lionfish a factor in the problem of the algae, but run-off from resident's yards by the lagoon add phosphorous and nitrogen to the algae which contributes to its toxicity.
My project idea is to have pictures taken of lionfish in the areas surrounding Florida either by myself or by other scuba-divers that will be able to take pictures for me. The pictures will serve as proof that the lionfish population is a problem.
Pictures will be taken as well as an experimental growth of the blue-green algae be done in order to further research its growth.
I will also be taking a water sample from a pond in Wadsworth Park in Flagler Beach, FL.
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ReplyDeleteThanks for your name!
ReplyDeleteNow about your post this week..first--WOW...good job going to that lecture! That's what a future scientist SHOULD do!! Besides learning more about your topic it's a good way of meeting others with similar interests with hopes of future collaboration with them. I like your pic idea--I hope you get to take some of them yourself. Please remember to also include some form of scale when you start taking these pics--e.g., how many in a set amount of area (3 lionfish/square meter). If you do take scuba lessons--we'd love to see some posts of your "scuba journey".
Good luck, Grace!!! Looking forward to learning more about this invasive species in our area!!