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Greece Pays Fishermen to Catch Toxic Invasive Puffer Fish

Tuesday, 30 June 2026/SourceGoogle News/1 min read
Greece has introduced a financial bounty for fishermen who catch puffer fish (also known as blowfish) in Greek waters, including around Crete. The puffer fish is a toxic invasive species originally from warmer tropical seas, and its increasing presence in the Mediterranean is linked to rising sea temperatures. The fish contains tetrodotoxin, a potentially lethal poison with no antidote, making it dangerous if consumed. The bounty scheme aims to reduce the population and protect both the local fishing industry and public health. Tourists visiting Crete should avoid purchasing or eating puffer fish from any source, and should only buy seafood from established, reputable restaurants and fish markets. If you are unsure about a fish species on a menu, ask staff before ordering.

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