A fisherman off the coast of Heraklion, Crete has caught a giant pufferfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), one of the Mediterranean’s most dangerous invasive marine species.
The fish, measuring approximately 50 centimeters (20 inches) in length, was caught by local fisherman Nikos Kourakis, who shared video and photographs of the unusually large specimen on social media.
Although its size attracted attention, marine experts say the species poses a far greater concern than its appearance.
One of the Mediterranean’s most dangerous invasive species
The silver-cheeked toadfish, commonly known in Greece as the lagokefalos, entered the Mediterranean from the Red Sea through the Suez Canal in a process known as Lessepsian migration.
Since first appearing in Greek waters nearly two decades ago, the species has spread rapidly across the Eastern Mediterranean, becoming increasingly common around Crete, the Dodecanese, and other parts of the Aegean. Unlike many native fish, the lagokefalos has few natural predators in the Mediterranean, allowing its population to expand rapidly.
Highly toxic to humans
The species contains tetrodotoxin, a powerful neurotoxin concentrated primarily in its liver, ovaries, skin, and other organs. The toxin can cause severe poisoning and may be fatal if consumed.
Because of the health risk, the sale and consumption of the species is prohibited in Greece and throughout the European Union. The fish is also notorious for its exceptionally strong jaws, capable of damaging fishing nets and longlines while preying on commercially valuable fish and cephalopods.
Growing ecological concern
Marine scientists warn that the continued spread of the species threatens native biodiversity and local fisheries.
As sea temperatures continue to rise, warmer waters are creating increasingly favorable conditions for tropical species entering the Mediterranean, allowing invasive fish such as the lagokefalos to expand their range further west.
Related: A Toxic Pufferfish Is Invading Greece: What Swimmers Need to Know
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