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Toxic Pufferfish Invasion Devastates Greek Fishing Industry

Monday, 22 June 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Invasive pufferfish (lagocephalus sceleratus), originally from the Red Sea, have spread across Greek waters from Crete to the Ionian Sea, causing serious damage to local fishing. Fishermen report torn nets and drastically reduced catches as the species multiplies rapidly. The fish is highly toxic and should never be consumed under any circumstances. Tourists visiting Crete should be aware that this invasion is affecting the availability of locally caught fish in tavernas, and may notice higher seafood prices as a result. If you spot a pufferfish while swimming or snorkeling, do not touch or handle it. The issue is being flagged at a national level, with fishermen calling for coordinated action to manage the population before it causes further economic damage to coastal fishing communities across the island.

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