Lionfish Invitational Research Expeditions
Since 2013, Lionfish Invitational has fostered an alliance between scientists and citizens. By facilitating 4-night research trips into the Gulf of Mexico and Flower Garden Banks Nat'l Marine Sanctuary, we are actively assisting with the conservation of existing coral reefs and the monitoring of new habitats created by Texas Parks & Wildlife Artificial Reef Program.
Applications for 2026 research expeditions are closed. Trip fee for 2026 is $1,100.
Chosen applicants will be notified on March 15th.
Trip dates for 2026 are:
June 21-25
July 26-30
September 6-10
Lionfish Removal
Targeted lionfish removals from the Sanctuary began in 2013. Under a federal permit, we continue to spear lionfish, which are measured and weighed, submitted for fin clippings (DNA samples and Ciguatera testing) and fillet samples, then frozen for later dissection and gut content analysis. Fish surveys of native populations are compiled to determine distribution and effects of lionfish.
TPWD Artificial Reef Monitoring
TPWD will conduct roving fish surveys, benthic surveys, and water collection for eDNA sampling. Initiatives include the collection of fin and tissue samples from lionfish for genetic analysis and ciguatera testing, and the measurement of water quality parameters for each artificial reef site.
Invasive Regal Damselfish Impact
Dr. Majoris & Texas A&M Corpus Christi's project focuses on studying the invasive Regal’s impact on the food and habitat, and how it's affecting native damselfish (Sargent Majors, Brown Chromies, etc.). We will asses distribution, collect live fish for larvae samples, and spear them under a federal permit.
Angelfish Speciation & Hybridization Patterns
Dr. Remy Gatins (NorthEastern University) is collecting samples for her study on the hybrid angelfish resulting from Blue and Queen angelfish pairings in the Gulf and Caribbean and the population connectivity of reef fish.
Applications for 2026
will open Dec 1, 2025.
Trip dates for 2026 are:
June 21-25
July 26-30
September 6-10
Want to support us?
We'd love that! 100% of your donation helps us cover the vessel costs of our research expeditions. Lionfish Invitational is a registered 501c3. For a tax-deduction receipt, please reach out to us at: LionfishInvitational@gmail.com
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