Cyprus Fisheries Catch 145 Tonnes of Invasive Silver-Cheeked Toadfish Since 2024
Nearly 145 tonnes of the invasive silver-cheeked toadfish, known locally as hare’s head, have been caught in Cypriot waters since June 2024, according to the fisheries department. The removal scheme, with a budget of €1.3 million funded 70% by the European fisheries fund, aims to reduce the toadfish population, which has caused significant damage to fishing gear and catches over the past two decades.
About €685,000 has been paid to fishermen participating in the plan, which runs until 2029. Around 150 professional fishermen are involved, receiving €4.73 per kilogram of fish caught. The collected toadfish are then incinerated as sale and marketing of the species are prohibited across the EU due to its toxicity.
Fisheries officials note that complete eradication is unlikely because of the species’ adaptability and rapid growth. The department continues to monitor other invasive species, such as the lionfish, while collaborating with Greece on managing this spreading species.
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