The 2025 FWC Lionfish Challenge celebrated its 10th anniversary by successfully removing over 30,000 invasive lionfish from Florida waters. More than 500 divers participated in the summer-long tournament, embarking on 1,104 dive trips across the state to collect as many lionfish as possible. The event highlights the ongoing battle against the invasive lionfish species, which threaten local ecosystems and marine life. Congratulations to our 2025 Lionfish King and Commercial Champion, said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Executive Director Roger Young. The diving community across our state plays a vital role in promoting conservation and raising awareness of this invasive species. Paul Carlson of Palm Beach County earned the title of Lionfish King in the Recreational Division by removing 1,542 lionfish over 73 dive trips. His achievement not only showcases individual dedication but also underscores the collective effort required to address the lionfish problem. Kris Anderson of Texas came in second with 1,098 lionfish removed over 36 trips, while Helen Rodney from Broward County secured third place by removing 962 lionfish. In the Commercial Division, Donald Vautrinot of Walton County was named Commercial Champion after removing 1,161.04 pounds of lionfish. Matt Myers of Jacksonville earned second place with 803 pounds of lionfish, and David Garrett of Volusia County took third with 754 pounds removed. In a statement from the FWC, Jessica McCawley, Director of the FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management, expressed gratitude to the participants, saying, Every year, we are blown away by the enthusiastic participation during the Lionfish Challenge. The challenge has grown significantly since its inception, engaging divers and conservationists alike in efforts that not only aim to keep local waters healthy but also encourage sustainable recreational fishing practices. The removal of lionfish is seen as a critical step toward protecting Floridas multi-billion dollar fishing and tourism industries that significantly rely on healthy coral reefs and native fish populations. Given the invasive nature of lionfish, they pose a considerable threat to local marine habitats, preying on native species and competing for resources. The objective of this annual event is to raise awareness about these challenges and empower individuals to take an active role in conservation efforts. As the lionfish population continues to proliferate, the results of this challenge paint a hopeful picture of what community action can achieve. The synergy between state-led initiatives and community engagement illustrates a promising pathway for wildlife management as it relates to invasive species. While challenges remain, the community's dedication as evidenced by this year's participation indicates a growing awareness and responsiveness to ecological challenges. This is especially crucial as we look toward future conservation efforts and the continued health of our oceans.