Lionfish Awareness Programme in Primary and Secondary Schools (2026 – Ongoing)

Scope

Cyprus is one of the Mediterranean countries where the arrival and establishment of non-indigenous marine species is especially visible. Lionfish (Pterois miles), a species native to the Indo-Pacific, is now established in waters around the island. As an efficient predator, it can place additional pressure on native fish and invertebrates and create new challenges for fisheries and marine management.

The programme will use lionfish as an accessible local example to help pupils understand how species reach new environments, why some become established and what can happen when their presence affects ecosystems or human activities. A species that pupils may already have seen or heard about therefore becomes a starting point for discussing biodiversity, food webs, environmental change and possible management responses.

MER will deliver 60 presentations in public primary and secondary schools in Limassol, Larnaca, Famagusta and Paphos until 30 November 2027. The sessions will be delivered in Greek and will share a common scientific foundation, while the language, depth, examples and activities will be adapted to the age and knowledge of each group.

For pupils in Years 4 to 6 of primary school, the emphasis will be on recognising lionfish, understanding where it comes from and exploring simple relationships between predators, prey and healthy marine ecosystems. Secondary-school pupils will examine the subject in greater depth, including the establishment of invasive species, their effects on biodiversity and fisheries, and the role of monitoring and management.

The sessions will also connect marine ecology with food and everyday decisions. Pupils will learn why lionfish must be handled carefully because of its venomous spines, while also understanding that it is edible when correctly handled and prepared. This provides a practical basis for discussing safe consumption, nutritional value and how responsible seafood choices may contribute to wider management efforts.

Each Greek-language presentation will cover one to two teaching periods and use visual material, examples from Cyprus and the wider Mediterranean, guided discussion and age-appropriate activities. The intention is not simply to provide facts, but to encourage pupils to ask questions, interpret what they see and consider how scientific knowledge can inform practical choices.

Short knowledge questions will help assess whether pupils have understood the main messages. Teachers will also be invited to comment on the clarity, organisation and suitability of the educational material. This feedback will support evaluation of the programme and help refine the sessions as implementation progresses.

The programme extends MER’s work in marine education and engagement and its long-term research and communication on non-indigenous species and biosecurity. It also builds on experience from Fish the Alien and FishTheAlien II: Holiday Edition, which connect invasive-species management with fisheries, food and public awareness.