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Toxic Pufferfish Invasion Cripples Crete's Fishing Industry

Thursday, 25 June 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Fishermen across Crete are struggling with a growing pufferfish problem in coastal waters. The silver-cheeked toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), an invasive species that spread into the Mediterranean from the Red Sea via the Suez Canal, has become increasingly prevalent around the island. These fish are highly toxic and damage fishing nets, cutting into fishermen's catches and livelihoods. For tourists, the main practical concern is at fish markets and restaurants: pufferfish are not sold for consumption in Greece, as their flesh contains tetrodotoxin and is illegal to serve. Swimmers and snorkelers should be aware that the species is present in Cretan waters. If you encounter one while snorkeling, do not touch it. The fish do not pose an unprovoked threat to swimmers, but contact should always be avoided.

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