world
Greece Offers Bounty on Toxic Fish Migrating Into Mediterranean
Greek authorities began paying fishermen 5.33 euros per kilogram to catch silver-cheeked toadfish that have entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal. The fish carry a neurotoxin that can cause heart failure if eaten and have damaged fishing nets off Crete and other islands.
The IndependentAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
Greece started a bounty program on Friday that pays fishermen 5.33 euros per kilogram for each silver-cheeked toadfish caught. The species, known locally as lagokefalos, has human-like teeth and contains a neurotoxin in its skin and organs. The fish are believed to have moved north through the Suez Canal into warming Mediterranean waters. Similar programs have already been introduced in Cyprus.
Crews say the fish chew through nets and eat their catch.
A member of a Cretan fishermen's association told Greek public broadcaster ERT that crews may spend three days repairing nets after one day of fishing. Greek media reported that a woman swimming near Varkiza, outside Athens, was bitten and required hospital treatment and stitches.
The Greek Red Cross has published first-aid guidance for bite wounds and warned against eating the fish. Officials stated the fish have not been seen in bathing areas at island resorts. Sixteen medical and tourism associations on Crete issued a joint statement saying there is no imminent danger to bathers and urging against exaggeration.
The government plans to freeze and incinerate the fish at local facilities. Agriculture officials said the program may later expand to all Greek waters.
