tourism

Toxic Invasive Pufferfish Discovered Off Cretan Coast

Friday, 26 June 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Poisonous pufferfish, specifically the silver-cheeked toadfish (*Lagocephalus sceleratus*), have been spotted in waters off the Cretan coast. Originally from the Red Sea, this invasive species has been spreading across the Mediterranean for years. The fish is highly toxic if eaten, as its organs contain tetrodotoxin, a potent poison with no antidote. Swimmers and snorkelers are not at risk of being attacked, as the fish is not aggressive, but should avoid handling any pufferfish found in the water or washed ashore. Fishermen are advised not to consume any caught specimens and to dispose of them carefully. Tourists should never purchase or eat pufferfish from informal vendors. If you spot one, observe from a distance and report it to local authorities or the nearest port authority.

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