SAVE THE REEF

Invasive Lionfish are Devastating The Caribbean

Protecting Caribbean Reefs

TTT works to safeguard Caribbean marine ecosystems by actively controlling invasive lionfish and supporting the recovery of native reef species through local, hands-on action.

Our Mission

Why it Matters

We all depend on healthy oceans and ecosystems

We act today to secure marine life for future generations

Lionfish have no natural predators in the Caribbean, reproduce rapidly, and heavily consume juvenile reef fish. Left unchecked, they disrupt ecosystems and threaten fisheries and livelihoods.

What We Do

We turn commitment into measurable actions

Direct lionfish removal on affected reefs by experienced divers
Field data recorded for each dive (number of individuals, size and weight)
Active collaboration with local authorities, fishers, and dive operators
Clear evidence-based outreach grounded in real results

Focused action to counter an invasive species

Close-up of a lionfish with its dorsal venomous spines deployed in a defensive display

Deep sea fan coral with a golden crinoid and sponges

Baby leatherback turtle aiming for the ocean

Lionfish 101

Learn why this remarkable fish became a threat to Caribbean reefs

Our Work Beyond the Dive

Protecting ecosystems also means working with people

Our Impact

TTT teaming up with the SMMA rangers in Saint Lucia to remove illegal fish traps from the reef

Collaborating Locally

In collaboration with local authorities, fishers, dive operators, and communities, we help ensure lionfish control efforts are practical, accepted, and effective on the ground.

Our Community Engagement

Contribution to Science & Management

TTT shares field data and firsthand observations with biologists and fisheries managers to support research, inform policy decisions, and strengthen long-term management strategies.

We work with those who live from and manage these ecosystems

We turn awareness into understanding through engagement

We turn field observations into usable knowledge

Lionfish served as a flavorful and sustainable meal

Clear, accessible discussions explaining the lionfish issue.
Outreach materials adapted to local audiences.
Safe handling and preparation guidance.
Tastings to promote lionfish as a sustainable food option.

See how field work translate into documented results

Diver monitoring a Caribbean coral reef and native fish populations

Spotted moray eel peering from a crevice in a colorful coral- and sponge-covered reef

Gallery

Documenting our work and the ecosystems we operate in

Lionfish are undeniably beautiful, with flowing fins and bold patterns. In the Caribbean, however, they are an invasive species with no natural predators. They multiply quickly and consume young reef fish, upsetting the balance of reef life.

Pink sea whip corals growing on a sandy seabed

The images below capture moments from our dives and some of the marine life we encounter along the way.

Common octopus camouflaged as a rock on a sandy seabed

Named for its oversized eye, the glasseye snapper displays a reddish coat with silver markings

Caribbean spiny lobster feeding on an invasive dead lionfish

Pederson cleaner shrimp on a sponge beside a corkscrew anemone for protection

Hairy clinging crab sheltering inside a giant barrel sponge

Spanish slipper lobster are very active at night and elusive day time

Feather duster worm filtering plankton offering a hiding to banded coral shrimps

Green sea tutrtle resting on a giant barrel sponge

Yellowline arrow crab surrounded by bright yellow cup corals

Southern teardrop crab on the rim of an azure vase sponge

Christmas tree worms nestled among yellow pencil coral

Conical sea cucumber resting on sandy seabed, covered in rounded bumps and pointed projections

Reef urchin sheltering among sponges, algae, and coral crevices

Longspine squirrelfish displaying its impressive, brightly tipped dorsal spines

Red-banded lobster, a tiny and uncommon species that spends most of its time hidden in crevices

Balloonfish hovering among colorful red and orange reef sponges

Bearded fireworms displaying their beautiful but venomous white bristles

French angelfish displaying the striking yellow-and-black coloration of its juvenile phase

Close-up of a tarpon, showing its large eye, upturned mouth, and distinctive silver scales

Giant sea anemone displaying purple-tipped tentacles armed with stinging cells

Meet Nadi & Patrick

Meet the people behind these observations and photographs