Batfish roundup in Florida!

[Ninong]

Holy ecosystem encroachment, Batfish! Casey Coy traps an orbicular batfish in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary off Key Largo. The non-native fish likely belonged to aquarium enthusiasts who discarded it after it grew too large for its tank. Sanctuary officials removed the fish and its mate so they could not breed and compete with indigenous species.

[hcp28]

HOLY BATFISH that's a big fish!

[Reefland]

Actually it's a shame that someone probably did what they suspect. The problems this could cause if it was practiced world-wide would really be tragic. I hope that they will take it to a local aquarium for display.

Scott Z.

[Poseidon]

Wow that is big enough to feed a family of FOUR!!!

[zhenya]

Scott,

Actually, it has happened numerous times and this issue was addressed at the IMAC. The fear of spreading none indigenous species of corals has impeded some proposals of growing them in tanks and then restocking in the wild. And fish, you just have to look back at the lionfish situation off the coast of Carolinas.
It is a problem to say the least and much more serious then most of us realize, overzealous "Finding Nemo" fans are no help either.

[Ninong]

Yes, it is sad. Probably not as sad as the Monaco Aquarium releasing mutant Caulerpa taxifolia into the Mediterranean, but sad nonetheless.