Volitans Lionfish

When a Volitans Lionfish goes on the prowl, it advertises its intentions. It raises its venomous spines, extends its pectoral fins, and slowly advances on its prey. With nowhere to go that doesn't look dangerous, "dinner" is slowly cornered until it gets vacuumed up in the Lionfish's large mouth. In truth, lionfish use their venom mostly for defense, not hunting. The prickly spines and vivid coloring serve as a warning to would-be predators. As with honeybees and coral snakes, black, yellow, and red stripes are nature's universal signal for: "Leave me alone. I'm toxic."

Field Museum scientists have been studying the Volitans Lionfish to learn more about its venom. The toxin presents a "triple-threat" by breaking down tissue, causing nerve damage, and creating blood pressure and cardiac problems. Museum researchers are also documenting the distribution of this dangerous fish, which is native to the Western Pacific Ocean. Through aquarium introductions, it has now invaded the western Atlantic Coast, from Rhode Island to Colombia. The species' potentially deadly stings mean that both humans and native fishes in these areas now face new challenges.