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Greece Pays Fishermen to Catch Toxic Invasive Toadfish

Friday, 26 June 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Greece has launched a paid program encouraging local fishermen to catch the silver-cheeked toadfish (*Lagocephalus sceleratus*), a toxic invasive species spreading across the warming Mediterranean, including waters around Crete. The fish originates from the Red Sea and entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal. Its flesh, skin, and organs contain tetrodotoxin, a potent poison with no antidote, making it dangerous if consumed. Fishermen receive compensation per kilogram caught, helping reduce the population while supporting fishing communities. For visitors to Crete, the key precaution is simple: do not eat toadfish purchased from informal or unverified sources, and avoid handling any unfamiliar fish caught while fishing. Toadfish is banned from sale in Greece. Stick to licensed restaurants and reputable fish markets, where all seafood is inspected and safe to eat.

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