Florida sets record with removal of over 36,000 lionfish

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced that the 2026 Lionfish Challenge has set a new record for both participation and invasive species removal. During the competition, which ran from May 22 to September 14, 533 participants removed a total of 36,187 lionfish from Florida waters across 1,468 diving expeditions.

This figure surpasses the previous year's record by more than 5,000 fish. The initiative aims to protect marine biodiversity and native species by reducing the presence of the invasive predator in local coral reefs and ecosystems.

The FWC expanded its award categories this year to recognize six different champions. Hunter Ledbetter of Monroe County was named ‘Lionfish King’ and also won the Veteran Champion category, having removed 1,541 lionfish. Helen Rodney of Broward County was named ‘Lionfish Queen’ after harvesting 1,488 fish. Other winners included David Garrett, the Commercial Champion, and Meagan Huffman, the Junior Champion.