September 18, 2026
Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, along with Lionfish Invitational Inc., Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and Texas Caribbean Charters, LLC, welcomed trained volunteer divers, citizen scientists, and research partners to the annual Lionfish Invitational. The trip took place September 6-8, 2026, with participants from Texas, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, Mississippi, Connecticut, Florida, Wisconsin, Indiana, and North Carolina.
Over the course of two days, invitational participants conducted fish surveys and removed 59 invasive lionfish from East Flower Garden Bank, West Flower Garden Bank, Stetson Bank, and surrounding artificial reef structures.
Throughout the two trips this summer, 216 invasive lionfish were removed. Sanctuary researchers will examine the removed lionfish for growth and stomach contents to identify the native fish species lionfish consume. Students from across the country will have an opportunity to learn about this invasive fish and collect data that goes back to the researchers. By better understanding the effects of lionfish on native fish communities and habitats, managers can work to minimize their impact on sanctuary resources.
Join us on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Pier 21 in Galveston, Texas, for Texian Navy Day. Look for our blue tent, easy to spot with the sanctuary and NOAA logos, to learn about the sanctuary, participate in activities, and take home a sanctuary sticker or poster.
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