Greece Battles Invasive Toxic Pufferfish Threatening Mediterranean Fisheries

The Greek government has declared a campaign against the invasive and highly toxic 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 been advancing northward toward the shores of Greece and Cyprus.

The main danger posed by this fish is its powerful neurotoxin tetrodotoxin, found in its skin and internal organs. Consumption can cause paralysis, respiratory difficulties, heart failure, and death, with no available antidote to date. Beyond its venom, the fish has formidable fused teeth resembling a beak, enabling it to bite through fishing nets and even metal objects, causing significant damage to fishing equipment and economic losses. Fishermen have reported spending days repairing nets after a single fishing trip, and rare incidents of finger amputations from bites have been documented.

In response, 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 implemented a similar program. Authorities emphasize that the fish have not been observed in popular swimming areas, and the primary risk remains 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 hazards.