On 2 May 2026, representatives of local stakeholders and the University of the Aegean met at the offices of the Santorini Hoteliers Association to discuss the organization of an innovative educational and gastronomic event dedicated to the management of the invasive lionfish (Pterois miles).
The event, scheduled to take place in Vlychada, Santorini, in October 2026, will combine environmental education, public engagement, and contemporary gastronomy to raise awareness among residents and visitors about marine invasive alien species and their impacts on Mediterranean ecosystems.
The initiative is being organized by the GuardIAS team from the Department of Marine Sciences – University of the Aegean. Through a series of educational and hands-on activities, participants will learn about the ecological impacts of lionfish and explore how responsible consumption can contribute to controlling its population.
As lionfish continues to expand throughout the Mediterranean, scientists emphasize that promoting its consumption is not only a culinary choice but also a practical tool for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management. By encouraging targeted fishing and consumption of lionfish, the initiative aims to support local fisheries while helping reduce pressure on native marine communities.
The concept was presented by Mary Zotou, PhD candidate at the University of the Aegean, together with event coordinator Elina Mikroulea, who has extensive experience in lionfish culinary promotion initiatives across Greece and the Mediterranean through collaborations with European projects and international environmental organizations.
The meeting brought together representatives from local government, tourism organizations, business associations, and other key stakeholders. Participants unanimously expressed their support for the initiative and recognized the importance of involving local communities in addressing one of the Mediterranean’s most rapidly expanding marine invasive species.
The October 2026 event is expected to become a flagship example of how science, gastronomy, tourism, and citizen engagement can work together to address environmental challenges while creating new opportunities for sustainable local development.
