As the winter chill settles in, many of us are bundling up and seeking warmth wherever we can find it. Meanwhile, I will be heading to Belize, a country where the average temperature is blissfully warm, for a week of reef conservation work with ReefCI. 

While the allure of sunshine and tropical weather is tempting, my primary goal is contributing to an important environmental mission: controlling the invasive lionfish population.

Lionfish, with their striking appearance and venomous spines, are a significant ecological problem in the Caribbean. 

Originally native to the Indo-Pacific, these fish have no natural predators in their new environment. They are thought to have been released off the coast of Florida, possibly during a hurricane, and have since spread rapidly, wreaking havoc on marine ecosystems. 

Lionfish consume an astonishing number of smaller fish—sometimes as many as dozens in a single day—disrupting the delicate balance of coral reef habitats and threatening biodiversity.

One of the most effective methods to combat this invasive species is through direct removal.  While spear fishing is generally restricted to free diving and prohibited during scuba dives, exceptions are made for hunting lionfish due to their destructive impact. Spearing lionfish is not only a practical way to manage their population but also a rewarding and challenging activity. 

Beyond the thrill of the hunt, lionfish are a culinary delight. Their firm, white meat is versatile and delicious, making them a sustainable seafood choice that helps mitigate their ecological damage.

During my time in Belize, I’ll be joining other conservationists in targeting lionfish populations on the reef. 

This hands-on approach will not only make a tangible difference but also offer an opportunity to improve my diving skills. I’ll be taking a deep diver course to enhance my ability to explore deeper parts of the reef and a fish identification class to deepen my understanding of the marine ecosystem. 

Recognizing the various species that call the reef home is crucial for appreciating the intricate web of life that lionfish threaten to unravel.

Reef conservation is about more than just managing invasive species; it’s about preserving the vibrant and diverse underwater worlds that sustain life both above and below the waterline. 

Coral reefs are essential for protecting coastlines from erosion, supporting fisheries, and maintaining global biodiversity. Efforts like those of ReefCI are vital in ensuring these ecosystems remain healthy and resilient.

While it’s true that escaping the bitter cold for the warm waters of Belize is a nice bonus, my trip is driven by a deeper purpose.  Conservation work like this aligns with my passion for making a positive impact on the environment, whether it’s through wildlife rehabilitation back home or reef preservation abroad. 

And if I get to enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean and indulge in some delicious lionfish tacos along the way, that’s just an added perk.

So, as you bundle up against the cold, consider the interconnectedness of our planet. 

The choices we make, from the seafood we consume to the way we interact with nature, have ripple effects far beyond our immediate surroundings. 

By taking action—whether locally or globally—we can all play a part in protecting the natural world for future generations. And if you’re ever given the chance to join a conservation effort, whether it’s in a frigid forest or a tropical reef, I highly recommend it. It’s an experience that not only benefits the planet but also enriches your perspective and spirit.

MJ Wixsom, DVM MS is a best-selling Amazon author who practices at Guardian Animal Medical Center in Flatwoods, Ky. GuardianAnimal.com 606-928-6566