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Greece Launches Bounty Program to Remove Invasive Fish Species

Sunday, 5 July 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Greece has introduced a financial bounty program to encourage the removal of invasive fish species that have spread into Greek waters due to rising sea temperatures. The warming Mediterranean has attracted predatory non-native fish, including the silver-cheeked toadfish and pufferfish, which pose risks to local marine ecosystems and fish populations. For tourists visiting Crete, this has two practical implications. First, avoid handling any unfamiliar fish encountered while snorkeling or swimming, as some invasive species carry toxins or can bite. Second, local fishing activity may increase in coastal areas as fishermen participate in the bounty program. The initiative reflects broader concerns about climate change affecting the Aegean and Cretan seas. Visitors should check with local dive operators or beach authorities for any specific advisories about marine wildlife in the areas where they plan to swim.

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