Greece Offers Financial Incentives to Fishermen to Combat Dangerous Silver-Cheeked Toadfish Amid Tourism Peak

Greece has launched a new program offering fishermen 5.33 euros per kilogram to catch the silver-cheeked toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), a venomous species that has spread in the Mediterranean due to warming waters. Originating from the Indian Ocean, this fish carries a potent neurotoxin that can cause severe injury or death. It entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal and has become a significant problem, especially around Crete.

Fishermen report substantial damage to their nets, as the toadfish aggressively tears them while feeding, leading to costly repairs. Videos circulating recently show the fish biting cans and wood with its sharp teeth, raising public concern. Last week, an elderly woman was bitten while swimming near Vouliagmeni, Athens, requiring stitches. In response, the Greek Red Cross issued guidelines on first aid for bites and warned about the toxin in the fish’s organs.

Marine researcher Noto Pristraki from the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research advised people to avoid contact with the fish and not to feed it. Although rare, there have been isolated cases of people losing fingers or toes due to bites. Despite these warnings, local authorities and tourism officials in Crete urge calm, emphasizing that the fish’s presence has been known for years and there is no immediate danger to swimmers in coastal areas.

The captured fish are frozen and destroyed at designated facilities to prevent further spread. This is the first time Greece has implemented a financial incentive program to control this invasive and hazardous species during the peak tourist season.