Controlling lionfish for ecosystem conservation in Bocas del Toro

Lionfish a species native to the Pacific Ocean has invaded the Caribbean basin where it has no natural predators.

With an insatiable appetite and the ability to rapidly multiply the lionfish is decimating aquatic ecosystems which threatens food security and income for fishing communities in Bocas del Toro Panama. The IAF supports community-led solutions to improving natural resource management and creating economic opportunity.

Our grantee partner the Unin de Pescadores Artesanales Bocatoreos (UPESABO) is an artisanal fishers association working with its members and other Panamanian organizations to control the lionfish population including by promoting its consumption.

Through training environmental education and updating market infrastructure UPESABO improves the lives of its members while also protecting the community's natural heritage.