Page 79 - Climate Compliance

As part of the CCC Program, the importance of preserving biodiversity is
emphasized. Practical actions are made to reduce the impact of invasive species
and promote awareness and appreciation, through for example, the restoration of 79
nature trails and the protection of wetland areas.

Protection against invasive species

Lionfish is native to the Indo-Pacific and is currently an invasive specie in the
Caribbean. They have a colourful and dramatic appearance that make them

popular ornamental fish in saltwater aquariums. However, over the last decade,
the density of the wild lionfish population in the Caribbean has expanded. It does
not have natural predators in the area and thus poses a serious threat to other reef
fish populations across the region, as well as coral reef ecosystems and the people
who depend on them. St. Vincent and the region’s fishing and tourism industries,
which depend on coral reefs, are at risk.

Two species of Lionfish (Pterois volitans and P. miles) are responsible for this
recent and growing threat to the Atlantic and Caribbean reefs. Governments
across the region are trying to respond. For this reason, RVA periodically carries

out a number of lionfish hunts and awareness campaigns. Several meals of
Lionfish have been served at the school.