Divers remove more than 36,000 invasive Lionfish in record Florida challenge

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said 533 registered divers removed 36,187 invasive lionfish from Florida waters during this year’s annual FWC Lionfish Challenge.FWC described the summer-long tournament as a record-breaking year for both participation and lionfish removals.280 invasive pythons removed during 2026 Florida Python ChallengeThe free annual challenge allows divers to compete from anywhere in Florida. Participants can earn prizes based on the number of lionfish they remove.FWC said the program is designed to encourage divers to help reduce the impact of invasive lionfish while supporting Florida’s marine resources.The agency thanked divers who participated in the challenge and said it plans to hold the event again next year.