Back to newsGreece has launched a paid program encouraging local fishermen to catch the silver-cheeked toadfish (*Lagocephalus sceleratus*), an invasive species that has spread rapidly across the Mediterranean as sea temperatures rise. The fish, originally from the Indo-Pacific, carries a powerful toxin called tetrodotoxin in its skin, liver, and reproductive organs, making it dangerous to eat. Fishermen receive compensation for each toadfish caught and removed from Greek waters.
For visitors to Crete, the main practical concern is at the table: never order or accept toadfish at a taverna, and avoid purchasing unfamiliar fish from informal vendors. The species looks similar to some edible fish. Licensed restaurants are required to avoid serving it, but awareness is worthwhile. The program aims to protect both local marine ecosystems and public health across Greek coastal areas.
general
Greece Pays Fishermen to Catch Toxic Invasive Toadfish
Related news
Discover Crete
Как передвигаться по Криту на автобусе
- Bus Agia Galini до Heraklion
- Bus Agia Galini до Matala
- Bus Agia Galini до Rethymno
- Bus Agios Nikolaos до Heraklion
- Bus Agios Nikolaos до Hersonisos
- Bus Agios Nikolaos до Ierapetra
- Bus Agios Nikolaos до Siteia
- Bus Chania до Heraklion
- Bus Chania до Kissamos
- Bus Chania до Paleochora
- Bus Chania до Rethymno
- Bus Heraklion до Hersonisos
Stay informed.
Get the weekly Crete briefing · news, weather, events. No spam.