tourism

Greek Fisherman Warns of Toxic Invasive Fish Surge in Cretan Waters

Wednesday, 8 July 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Michalis Karpodinis, an amateur fisherman and founder of the grassroots initiative tracking pufferfish (lagokéfalos) sightings across Greece, has raised the alarm over the growing presence of the silver-cheeked toadfish in Greek waters, including Cretan seas. His volunteers recorded 740 kilograms of the fish in just five days, highlighting the scale of the problem. The silver-cheeked toadfish is an invasive and highly toxic species whose flesh, skin, and organs contain a poison with no known antidote. Karpodinis urges anyone who spots one to stay calm, keep distance, and not touch it under any circumstances. Tourists swimming or snorkeling in Crete should be aware that this fish can be found in coastal waters. If you see one on a beach or in the sea, do not handle it and alert local authorities or beach staff immediately.

Read original article → CretaOne