José Andrés turns the lionfish, an invasive and venomous species, into gourmet cuisine

L’Estartit, Costa Brava. Chef José Andrés has once again brought attention to an idea that is both surprising and necessary: turning an invasive species into a gastronomic and environmental opportunity. The protagonist is the lionfish (Pterois volitans / Pterois miles), a spectacular-looking fish with venomous spines, but also with white flesh that is safe to eat when handled properly.

The story, inspired by the chef’s experience in the Caribbean, explains how José Andrés promotes the consumption of lionfish as a way to reduce the pressure this species places on reefs and native fish populations. According to Food & Travel México, the chef took part in a diving trip in the Cayman Islands to catch lionfish and later turn it into dishes such as ceviche or a Catalan-inspired potato and saffron broth.

An invasive species that worries scientists

Lionfish are native to the Indo-Pacific, but they have become established in parts of the western Atlantic and the Caribbean, where they have few natural predators. NOAA describes them as an invasive species that threatens reefs and other marine ecosystems, including species of ecological, commercial and recreational importance.

The problem is not only their presence, but their behaviour: lionfish are highly effective predators, they compete with native species and can alter the balance of marine habitats. In parts of the Caribbean and the western Atlantic, their spread has pushed scientists, fishermen, divers and restaurants to look for ways to control their populations.

The idea of “eating the invader” is not new, but it is gaining momentum. In the Caribbean, Panama and parts of the eastern Mediterranean, projects involving capture, consumption and public awareness have been promoted to turn lionfish into a gastronomic resource while helping reduce their environmental impact.

What does this have to do with the Costa Brava?

In the Medes Islands, the situation is not the same as in the Caribbean. Lionfish are not part of the usual dives in the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park. However, this story reminds us of an important reality: marine ecosystems are fragile, and any imbalance can have deep consequences.

Costa Brava Divers works in a privileged environment. The Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park includes the Montgrí massif, the Medes Islands archipelago and the Baix Ter wetlands, with seabeds of great ecological value.

The Medes Islands are also one of the most important diving areas in the western Mediterranean. From L’Estartit, Costa Brava Divers offers dives at iconic sites such as Dofí Nord, Dofí Sud, La Vaca, Carall Bernat, Tascons and Ferranelles.

This natural richness is exactly what we must preserve. Every dive is an opportunity to enjoy the sea, but also to observe it with respect and understand that marine biodiversity depends on delicate balances: water temperature, the presence of invasive species, human pressure, fishing, pollution and visitor behaviour.

Diving also means observing and protecting

The story of the lionfish and José Andrés carries a valuable message for divers: underwater, everything is connected. A species that reaches an ecosystem where it has no predators can change the food chain, reduce native populations and transform the underwater landscape.

That is why, at Costa Brava Divers, responsible diving is an essential part of the experience. It is not only about seeing groupers, corals, gorgonians, barracudas or Posidonia meadows; it is about doing so without touching, disturbing or leaving any trace.

When we dive in the Natural Park, every decision matters: controlling buoyancy, avoiding contact with the seabed, not chasing marine life, following the guides’ instructions and maintaining a calm, observant attitude. This is the best way to continue enjoying one of the most valuable underwater areas of the Costa Brava.

A gastronomic and environmental lesson

The case of the lionfish shows that marine conservation can have unexpected allies. Science, fishing, diving and gastronomy can work together to address complex environmental challenges.

José Andrés has turned an invasive and venomous species into a positive message: when we understand the sea, we can find creative solutions to protect it. In the Caribbean, that solution may involve catching and eating lionfish. On the Costa Brava, it means caring for every dive, respecting the Natural Park and continuing to raise awareness about the importance of marine biodiversity.

Because the future of diving depends on a living sea.

Discover the Medes Islands with Costa Brava Divers

At Costa Brava Divers, we believe that every dive is much more than an activity: it is a way to discover, love and protect the Mediterranean. Come diving with us in the Medes Islands and along the Montgrí coast, and experience the biodiversity of one of the most spectacular marine environments on the Costa Brava.