Cyprus has successfully removed more than 100 tonnes of the toxic invasive pufferfish Lagocephalus sceleratus from its coastal waters through a subsidy scheme targeting professional fishers. The species, known for its potent neurotoxin tetrodotoxin, poses a serious threat to marine biodiversity, fishing operations, and human health if consumed. The subsidy scheme, co-financed by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, offers €4.73 per kilogramme to professional fishers to encourage intensive targeted fishing.

The pufferfish, originating from the Indo-Pacific and entering the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal, has been spreading throughout Cyprus’s coastline for around 20 years. It damages fishing gear, preys on native species, and disrupts ecosystem balance. Cyprus’s Department of Fisheries monitors the species and has documented most catches occur in summer, especially in the south and southeast regions.

Greece is currently considering implementing a similar subsidy incentive after seeing Cyprus’s success, aiming to control the fish population along its own coast. Authorities emphasize that while the pufferfish is hazardous if eaten, it poses no risk from touch or bites, and caution the public to avoid handling or feeding the fish.