Venomous invader confirmed at Gray's Reef

Officials at Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary said today that research divers have confirmed the presence of red lionfish in the protected marine zone off the Georgia coast. Photographs show the venemous, invasive species, which is native to the deep waters of the Western Pacific Ocean, in their shallowest depths yet recorded.

"Discovery of the lionfish represents a challenge for both sanctuary management and scuba divers in the area," said George Sedberry, Gray’s Reef sanctuary superintendent. "Without any natural predators in southeastern waters, lionfish put indigenous marine species at risk due to competition for food and space and their role as a predator of smaller fish."

The lionfish were spotted in 60-70 foot waters, shedding light on just how close they can survive to the shore. That's important for divers, since lionfish stings can be excruciatingly painful, spreading over an entire limb and lasting for 12 hours. Gray's Reef NMS, about 17 miles off Sapelo Island, is a popular destination for divers. Area hospitals might not be familiar with lionfish stings.