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Invasive toxic pufferfish spotted cannibalizing in Cretan waters

Friday, 3 July 2026/SourceGoogle News/1 min read
Pufferfish (lagocephalus), an invasive and highly toxic species, have been spotted in Cretan waters in an unusual video showing the fish cannibalizing one another. The lagocephalus sceleratus, also known as the silver-cheeked toadfish, has been present in the Mediterranean for years and is considered dangerous. Its flesh, organs, and skin contain tetrodotoxin, a potent poison with no known antidote. Fishermen occasionally catch them by accident. Tourists should be aware that eating any fish caught locally and sold informally without proper identification carries risk. If you are swimming or snorkeling, these fish are not aggressive toward humans, but you should never handle or consume one. Always buy seafood from licensed restaurants and reputable fish markets. If you witness a fisherman discarding an unfamiliar catch, do not attempt to touch it.

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