REEF Science Saturdays: Invasive Species, Lionfish

Saturday, November 14, 2026, 11:00 a.m.

REEF runs a free community science lesson on invasive lionfish in the Science Discovery Classroom at its Ocean Exploration Center in Key Largo. The session traces how lionfish spread through the Florida Keys and what their arrival has done to the reef ecosystem.

The centerpiece is an educational lionfish dissection, after which staff explain how members of the public can take part in removal efforts. Lionfish control is one of REEF’s longest-running programs and depends heavily on divers and volunteers.

Admission is free and all ages are welcome. The Ocean Exploration Center sits in the median at mile marker 98.3 in Key Largo, reached by Bahama Road, and is open to walk-in visitors at no charge.