In Cyprus, experts explained what the real danger of pufferfish is

The Department of Fisheries and Marine Research of the Republic of Cyprus has urged residents and tourists not to believe rumors about the pufferfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus). The department stressed that, despite the species' widespread presence, it does not pose a threat to swimmers.

According to experts, the pufferfish has lived in Cypriot waters for more than 20 years, and during this time not a single attack on a person has been recorded.

However, the danger lies elsewhere. The fish contains a powerful neurotoxin — tetrodotoxin, so it is strictly forbidden to eat it. Poisoning can lead to severe health consequences.

Experts also remind that the pufferfish is considered one of the most dangerous invasive species in the Mediterranean Sea. It arrived here from the Indo-Pacific region via the Suez Canal, quickly spread, and causes serious damage to fisheries by damaging nets and destroying catches.

To reduce the population of this species, a support program for professional fishermen has been in place in Cyprus since June 2024. A compensation of €4.73 is paid for every kilogram of pufferfish caught. The program is set to run until the end of 2029.

The department also urged people not to feed the pufferfish and not to try to interact with it, just as with any other wild animals, and to obtain information about it only from official sources.