Large Individual-Level Variability in Diel Activity and Depth Use for the Common Lionfish (Pterois miles)

The common lionfish, Pterois miles , a notoriously invasive species known for its harmful effect on native fish communities in the Atlantic Ocean, has recently begun spreading across Mediterranean Sea. wide niche breadth of lionfish been hypothesized to facilitate invasion success. However, it is unclear what extent this niche-breadth associated with individual-level variation and repeatable behavior over time. Large behavioral variations may allow individuals adapt quickly local conditions, increasing species’ chance success complicating mitigation efforts. In study, we used an acoustic telemetry system P. ’ Red Sea environment explore depth preference diel activity. A range indicate ability tolerate variety biotic abiotic variability activity exploit multiple diet sources. We found large hours; although all tracked were active during both sunrise sunset, certain had prolonged hours variable extents. Moreover, often change their patterns time, showing low repeatability. also that different preferences commuted between shallow deep waters short periods This study one first as trait wild fish. likely reasons so successful invading addition, impact efforts within nocturnal from deeper might replenish diurnally culled shallow-water populations.