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"If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em": the development of commercial markets is an emerging strategy to control invasive species. This strategy may have fewer unintended ecological impacts than genetic modification and biological control; however, its unintended social impacts are poorly understood. We discuss the social dilemmas and opportunities created by commercializing invasive species, based on the experiences of fishing cooperatives' harvest of invasive lionfish (Pterois sp.) in the Mexican Caribbean. In Cozumel, Mexico, a pilot commercial fishery began in 2012, and by 2015 had seemingly succeeded at reducing local lionfish abundance. However, three social dilemmas have accompanied this process. First, though designed to support sustainability, this market disproportionately benefits fishers that use fishing gear considered "unsustainable". Second, this strategy reinforces the narrative of fishers trapped in a "tragedy of the commons," while simultaneously depending on the fishers' participation. Finally, the programme's very success has led to its own demise, disproportionately affecting the programme's most invested participants. These and similar dilemmas may be inevitable when systems in place for sustainable resource harvest are repurposed for resource collapse. However, fishing cooperatives have managed to navigate these dilemmas in partnership with governmental and non-governmental organization (NGO) advocates to position themselves as conservation leaders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fishery Improvement Projects (FIPs) have become a popular tool to drive sustainable management among fisheries. FIPs, guided by a private sector-led governance structure motivated by market-driven incentives, aim to reduce environmental impacts in fisheries, using the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) fishery standard as a guide. The Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region is a FIPs global hotspot. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of FIPs in the LAC region and highlights their potential and limitations in driving fisheries toward sustainability. We used information from the FisheryProgress website to analyze the main characteristics, and challenges concerning the MSC fishery standard, as well as actions, and outputs taken by FIPs. FIPs in this region are diverse, and face similar challenges related to defining stock status, establishing harvest strategies and control rules, and implementing fishery-specific management given limited fisheries information. Data collection and engagement through meetings to modify fishing practices and policies were the most employed actions to address these challenges. Although many FIPs are ongoing, improvements are evident as FIPs advance to later stages. Overall, FIPs are seen as a multi-stakeholder tool that encourages fisheries to enhance their environmental performance in pursuit of sustainability. However, more time is required to ascertain the true extent of their impact. This research offers insights into the main challenges and strategies when implementing FIPs in LAC. Our results should, be valuable for stakeholders looking to support sustainable fisheries management through FIPs where fisheries conditions are similar. • The LAC region has become a global hotspot of Fishery Improvement Projects. • Small-scale fisheries comprise most Fishery Improvement Projects in the LAC region. • The seafood market could be driving sustainable fishery management in the LAC region. • ONGs and industry are key players in developing Fishery Improvement Projects. • FIPs in LAC promote fishery governance and improve environmental performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]