Ecological impacts of an invasive mesopredator do not differ from those of a native mesopredator: lionfish in Caribbean Panama

Abstract The impacts of invasive lionfish ( Pterois volitans/miles ) on native coral reef populations in the Western Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea can be enormous. However, how much differ from predators whether their effects outweigh abundant mesopredators that occupy many reefs invite continued examination. Here, we present empirical evidence Panama beyond suggesting are less than mesopredators. Furthermore, show direct survivorship size distributions one prey species similar to those a mesopredator. These results support calls for management considers evolving local ecological social dynamics, including community composition, roles mesopredators, regional goals conservation fisheries. Recognition context creates potential synergies between actions aimed both at invasion other consequential problems such as overexploitation climate change.