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Greece's Pufferfish Bounty: Protecting Swimmers from Toxic Invaders

Sunday, 12 July 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Greece has introduced a paid collection program targeting the silver-cheeked toadfish, an invasive and highly toxic species that has spread throughout Greek waters, including around Crete. Under the initiative, licensed fishermen receive 5.33 euros for each pufferfish they catch and surrender for disposal. The program aims to reduce the population of this fish, whose flesh and organs contain tetrodotoxin, a poison with no known antidote. Tourists swimming or snorkeling around Crete should be aware that this species exists in local waters. Do not touch or handle any pufferfish encountered in the sea or washed up on beaches. More importantly, never purchase or consume pufferfish from any food source, as it is not a safe edible species in Greece. The fish poses no threat as long as it is left alone in the water.

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