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Greece Offers Bounty for Invasive Pufferfish Threatening Crete Waters

Friday, 10 July 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

Greece has introduced a bounty program targeting invasive pufferfish species that have spread throughout its coastal waters, including around Crete. The silver-cheeked toadfish, originally from the Red Sea, entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal and has established itself in Greek seas over recent years. To encourage removal, authorities now offer fishermen a small payment per fish caught. Despite this incentive, Cretan fishermen continue to report significant damage from the species. Pufferfish frequently tear through fishing nets, causing costly repairs and reducing daily catches. Local fishing communities say the bounty does not fully offset their financial losses. For tourists, locally caught seafood from traditional tavernas remains safe to eat. Pufferfish themselves are toxic if not prepared by a licensed specialist, so visitors should avoid consuming any offered informally or outside certified establishments.

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