Kaylin Clements Lionfish Research

Kaylin’s  PhD research focuses on the ‘people’ side of conservation. Humans’ interactions with nature largely determine the health and sustainability of our resources. People’s decisions and behaviors determine the viability of ecosystems, wildlife, and environmental health.

Lionfish are an exciting case because they give people an opportunity to do something active to solve an important conservation problem. Instead of being told to hunt or eat less of something, we get to consume more of it! As a lionfish researcher with a social-ecological background, I look for answers to questions like “what are the most effective ways to market lionfish to consumers in Belize?” or “what are the biggest challenges that divers face in getting their lionfish to market?” and apply my findings on the ground to implement strategic, targeted solutions.