Holidaymakers in the Mediterranean face a new threat this summer: the silver-cheeked pufferfish. This invasive species, which has a potent neurotoxin and exceptionally sharp teeth, has significantly expanded its presence across popular European tourist destinations, including the coasts of Greece, Spain, Italy, and Turkey, as well as Israel.
The fish, also known as the silver-cheeked toadfish, first appeared in the eastern Mediterranean in 2003 and reached Greek waters by 2005. Scientists attribute its recent population explosion and wide geographical spread to climate change, which has led to warmer sea temperatures and increased salinity. These conditions are believed to facilitate the fish's adaptation and proliferation.
Equipped with powerful, sharp teeth capable of tearing through bone, wood, and metal, the pufferfish poses a direct threat to humans. The Greek Red Cross has issued an urgent alert, and reports of attacks on swimmers are becoming more frequent. Last week, an elderly woman in Varkiza, near Athens, required stitches after being bitten. Fishermen have also reported severe damage to their nets, with some describing the fish as decimating their catch and equipment.
"If one of them bites you, it will simply cut off your finger. They destroy the sea. They don't leave anything behind," a Greek fisherman told reporters. Another described the situation as "dire" and expressed concerns about their livelihood.
In response to the growing menace, Greek authorities are implementing measures to protect swimmers. Floating barriers, initially installed to manage jellyfish swarms, are now also deterring the pufferfish. Chalkida's vice mayor reported that these barriers are effectively addressing both issues. Additional barriers with tightly woven netting are being deployed.
Cyprus initiated a government-backed eradication scheme in 2024, offering financial incentives to fishermen for removing the pufferfish. Since its introduction, over 100 tons of the species have been destroyed. Athens has recently launched a similar program, offering approximately €5.33 per kilogram of pufferfish surrendered for incineration. Fishermen are advocating for increased state subsidies and a structured framework to hunt the invasive species.
Beyond the immediate threat to humans, the pufferfish also cause significant economic damage. Nota Peristeraki of the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research estimated that these fish can inflict up to €8,500 in damages and lost income per incident.
However, not all agree on the eradication approach. The Initiative to Save Pufferfish has reportedly called for the species to be protected and respected, with some marine biologists suggesting that attacks are exaggerated and occur only when the fish are provoked.
The problem extends beyond Greece. Turkey's southern coast has also experienced serious incidents, including attacks on children and swimmers. Scientific monitoring confirms the species' westward expansion into the waters of Spain and Italy. The fish has a historical presence along the coasts of Libya and Syria.
In Israel, a dog became severely ill after licking a pufferfish found on a beach in Netanya, experiencing neurological symptoms. Fortunately, the dog survived after prompt veterinary care. The Nature and Parks Authority noted a phenomenon where fishermen catch pufferfish and then leave them on the sand, creating a hazard for children and pets. Authorities are urging fishermen to return unwanted or prohibited fish to the sea or dispose of them properly to prevent accidental contact.
The silver-cheeked pufferfish carries tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin that can cause paralysis of respiratory muscles and lead to life-threatening conditions if ingested. Medical professionals warn that poisoning can initially manifest as vomiting and muscle tremors, progressing rapidly to severe respiratory distress in untreated cases.
The fish's lack of natural predators in the Mediterranean allows its population to grow unchecked, exacerbating the challenges faced by coastal communities and tourists alike. Videos circulating online demonstrate the fish's powerful bite, with teeth capable of tearing through cans, highlighting the danger they pose to both marine life and humans. 
