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Pufferfish Invasion Devastates Crete's Traditional Fishing Industry

Thursday, 18 June 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Pufferfish have become a growing problem for fishermen across Crete, damaging nets and drastically reducing catches of traditional species. Local fishermen describe the invasion as devastating to their livelihoods, with the fish tearing through fishing gear and outcompeting native species for food resources. The pufferfish, originally from warmer tropical waters, have spread throughout the Mediterranean in recent decades due to rising sea temperatures. For tourists, this means some locally caught fish may be less available or more expensive at tavernas. Swimmers and snorkelers should also be aware that pufferfish are present in Cretan coastal waters. While they are not aggressive, they carry a toxic substance in their skin and organs and should never be handled or consumed. If you see one on the beach or in the water, admire it from a distance and do not touch it.

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