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2006 AZA Photo Contest Winners
Honorable Mention: Lionfish
(Pterois volitans)
Credit: Sarah Goldman
AZA Institution: South Carolina Aquarium
This beautiful-but-venomous lionfish serves to educate visitors about the potential threat of invasive species, particularly pet-trade species that are released into local habitats by aquarium hobbyists. The lionfish is now found along the east coast of the United States - quite far from its native Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Invasive species can disrupt native ecosystems, out-competing local animals and changing the land- and seascape forever. AZA-accredited aquariums and zoos have developed outreach programs to raise public awareness about the dangers of exotic invasive species and to help visitors understand how they can take action to help protect native habitats. Read AZA's Non-native Invasive Species Policy.
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