The impact of lionfish on the island’s marine life will be featured at a children’s event at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute this weekend.

Kids Hour at BUEI is held on the third Saturday of each month from January to September.

Each occasion has a different ocean-themed topic, with short film, book reading and fun activities for children aged 3 and up. It will run at 11am and 2pm.

The event returns to the calendar this Saturday when the BUEI will screen the short film Hungry Hungry Lionfish.

Children will engage with the book Luca the Confident Lionfish, by Robin Royal, and take part in creative educational activities billed as fun for all ages.

Lionfish, while striking in appearance, are an invasive species posing a serious threat to coral reef ecosystems in Bermuda and throughout the Atlantic.

Children will be taught what makes the creature unique and what scientists and conservationists are doing to help protect reef habitats.

Admission is free for BUEI members and $5 per child for non-members.

Adults get in free with children attending. Each session includes BUEI’s monthly I-Spy challenge and complimentary admission to the institute’s Ocean Discovery Centre.

The event is a staple of the BUEI’s education programmes and community outreach, offering consistent opportunities for children to connect with ocean science beyond the classroom.

Space is limited for this weekend. Advance registration was encouraged by e-mailing giftshop@buei.bm or by calling 294-0204.