Greece Battles Invasive Toxic Pufferfish Threatening Mediterranean Fisheries

The Greek government has declared a campaign against the highly toxic invasive pufferfish species known as the 'blowfish with cheek-like swellings,' which is rapidly spreading along Mediterranean coasts due to warming sea temperatures. This species, also called the pufferfish or fugu, entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal in a process known as Lessepsian migration and has since expanded northward toward the shores of Greece and Cyprus.

The primary danger posed by this fish is its potent neurotoxin, tetrodotoxin, found in its skin and internal organs. Consumption can cause paralysis, respiratory failure, heart failure, and death, with no available antidote, making any misidentification or ingestion potentially fatal. In addition to its venom, the fish has formidable teeth fused into a beak-like structure, enabling it to bite through fishing nets and even cause finger amputations in rare cases.

Fishermen have reported significant economic damage as the fish tear through nets while searching for food, requiring extensive repairs. Videos shared by fishermen show the fish biting through cans and wooden objects with ease. To curb the spread, the Greek government offers fishermen a financial incentive of 5.33 euros per kilogram for capturing these fish, which are then frozen and incinerated at specialized facilities. Cyprus has recently implemented a similar program.

Authorities emphasize that, so far, these fish have not been found in popular swimming areas, and the main risk is to fishermen who come into direct contact with them. The Greek Red Cross has issued public warnings including first aid protocols for bites and detailed information on the fish's dangers.