tourism

Toxic Puffer Fish Invade Greek Waters; Red Cross Warns Swimmers

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

Poisonous puffer fish have been spotted in the Mediterranean waters around Greece, prompting the Red Cross to issue safety advice for beachgoers and swimmers. The silver-striped blaasop (Lagocephalus sceleratus), an invasive species originally from the Indo-Pacific, has been present in Greek waters for several years and is considered highly toxic if touched or consumed. Its venom can cause numbness, paralysis, and in serious cases, respiratory failure. The Red Cross advises tourists to never touch or attempt to handle any puffer fish encountered in the water or washed ashore. If you spot one on a beach, alert local authorities or lifeguards. If you experience symptoms after contact, seek medical attention immediately. Local fish restaurants are unaffected, as puffer fish are not part of the local catch and are not served.

Read original article → Google News