The Lionfish, a small predatory fish native to the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, threatens native species along Turkey's coasts, coastal communities and the rich aquatic biodiversity important for the tourism sector. UNDP organised a Lionfish fishing competition and culinary event in Fethiye last week to raise awareness about the threat of the invasive species. Lionfish, a small predatory fish species native to the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, has spread to the Mediterranean Sea in the last 20 years and has become common in Turkish waters. It now threatens native species along Turkey's coasts, coastal communities and the rich aquatic biodiversity that is important for the tourism sector. This invasive alien species with poisonous stingers and a frightening appearance is consuming native species. Recent studies show that native fish species of Turkish waters such as Melanur, Yelloweye, Coral fish, Parrot fish are under great risk.