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Invasive pufferfish devastates Cretan fishing industry

Monday, 29 June 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Fishermen along the southern Cretan coast, particularly around Ierapetra, are reporting severe losses caused by the lagocephalus, an invasive toxic pufferfish species that has spread through the Mediterranean from the Red Sea. First recorded in Ierapetra in 2005, the fish now destroys nets and eats caught fish before they can be hauled in, making traditional fishing increasingly unviable. The lagocephalus is highly toxic and must never be eaten. Its flesh, skin, and organs contain tetrodotoxin, a poison with no antidote. The species is not found on menus and poses no risk in restaurants, but tourists should avoid handling any unfamiliar fish caught or washed ashore. The crisis is reducing the supply of locally caught fresh fish across Cretan markets and tavernas, which may affect availability and pricing of seafood during the summer season.

Read original article → CretaOne