[St.Petersburg] Lionfish Dissection with Tampa Bay Watch
March 9 @ 9:30 am - 2:00 pm
Ages: Recommended for ages 10 and up
Join us for an exciting lionfish dissection & Educator led exhibit gallery tour, at the Discovery Center on St. Pete Pier
Time & Location
Mar 09, 2026, 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM EDT
St. Petersburg, 700 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, USA
1- Lionfish Dissection
Join us to explore the ins and outs of the invasive lionfish. Uncover the truth about these problematic fish through a hands-on dissection and learn what is being done to eliminate them.
2- Discovery Center Tour
Our exhibit gallery showcases the economic and ecological value of Tampa Bay. During this guided tour provided by an educator, students can look forward to our interactive displays, video presentations, multiple live species to observe, and even a touch tank!
Chaperones:
Inclusion/ Accessibility: The discovery center and classroom are wheelchair accessible. For our friends that need more adult support, they are accommodating our group to allow for a larger chaperone group in the sessions.
Itinerary:
Our group will be divided in half, so we can all fit comfortably in the classroom for our dissection. We will each alternate through:
Tickets:
Chaperones: $15
Students: $1
Itinerary:
Our group will be divided in half, so we can all fit comfortably in the classroom for our dissection. We will each alternate through:
1- Lionfish Dissection
Join us to explore the ins and outs of the invasive lionfish. Uncover the truth about these problematic fish through a hands-on dissection and learn what is being done to eliminate them.
2- Discovery Center Tour
Our exhibit gallery showcases the economic and ecological value of Tampa Bay. During this guided tour provided by an educator, students can look forward to our interactive displays, video presentations, multiple live species to observe, and even a touch tank!
*******Please Be Aware —HANDLING PROCEDURES AND PRECAUTIONS*********
During dissection, lionfish spines can remain venomous for some time after death, depending on the temperature. Those handling lionfish must take extra precautions to avoid envenomation.
Beyond their venomous characteristic, the dorsal, pelvic, and anal spines of a lionfish are dangerous due to their needle-like sharpness. When managing both live and euthanized lionfish, it is wise to wear puncture-resistant gloves to minimize the risk of envenomation.
Symptoms of envenomation include pain and swelling in the affected area, but severe cases may also involve sweating, respiratory distress, and even temporary paralysis. Puncture-resistant gloves from manufacturers like Hex Armor®, TurtleSkin®, and other specialized companies are specifically designed to prevent needle-stick and other industrial punctures. Heavy leather or canvas work gloves, as well as latex or nitrile examination gloves, are not adequate substitutes, as lionfish spines can easily penetrate these materials. When using protective gear, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be aware of the protection area, as some gloves may only offer protection in the palm and fingers.
Before starting the dissection (after recording weight and length measurements), the spines of the lionfish can be removed using a sharp pair of scissors or a knife. Trimming the spines at their base helps reduce the risk of envenomation. To prevent skin irritation from the non-venomous spines (such as opercular spines or cheek mail) on the lionfish’s head, it is advisable to wear protective gloves made from nitrile, latex, or more durable rubber materials.
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