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Crete Launches €1.5M Program to Combat Invasive Toxic Toadfish

Monday, 29 June 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

A new 1.5 million euro pilot program launched today across Crete and the South Aegean to combat the invasive silver-cheeked toadfish, known locally as lagocephalos. Fishermen will be compensated 5.33 euros per fish caught and removed from local waters. The lagocephalos is an extremely toxic invasive species originally from the Red Sea that has spread throughout the Mediterranean. Its flesh, organs, and skin contain a powerful neurotoxin with no known antidote. Tourists should be aware: never purchase or consume lagocephalos at markets or restaurants, and do not handle any unfamiliar fish caught while fishing. The species resembles a pufferfish and is easily recognizable by its rounded body and small beak-like mouth. Local fishermen and authorities are actively working to reduce its presence in Cretan waters.

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