The Case of Lionfish (Pterois miles) in the Mediterranean Sea Demonstrates Limitations in EU Legislation to Address Marine Biological Invasions

The European Regulation (EU) 1143/2014 on Invasive Alien Species entered into force in 2015, with the aim to fulfill regional and international biodiversity goals a concerted manner. To date, listed 66 (IAS) that are subject legal controls. Only one of these is marine. A recent lionfish (Pterois miles) invasion has been closely monitored Mediterranean detailed risk assessment was made about profound impacts this invasive fish likely have fisheries region. In 2016–21, rapidly became dominant predators along Eastern coasts, yet process for their inclusion EU IAS list lengthy ongoing. There an urgent need learn from experience. Here, we recommend improvements protect marine ecosystems secure jobs people rely coastal resources.