Greece launches cash incentive to curb spread of toxic toadfish

Greece has launched a cash incentive program encouraging fishermen to catch the toxic silver-cheeked toadfish as authorities seek to limit the spread of the invasive species in the country's waters.

Under the scheme, which took effect on Friday, fishermen will receive €5.33 per kilogram of the fish, known locally as lagokefalos. The initiative follows growing reports of damage to fishing equipment and catches, particularly around Crete and other Greek islands.

Agriculture Minister Margaritis Schinas described the program as the first of its kind in Greece and said it could eventually be expanded to cover all Greek waters.

Invasive species causing damage

The silver-cheeked toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus) is believed to have entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal and expanded its range as sea temperatures have risen.

The species is highly toxic, with its skin and internal organs containing a powerful neurotoxin that can be fatal if consumed. It is also known for its strong teeth, which frequently damage fishing nets and consume commercially valuable fish.

"It has got to the point where we might go out fishing one day and then spend the next three days fixing our nets," Giorgos Kyriakakis, a representative of a fishermen's association in Crete, told Greek public broadcaster ERT.

Authorities urge calm

Under the program, the captured fish will be frozen before being destroyed at local government facilities.

The Greek Red Cross has issued guidance on treating bites and warned the public not to consume the species because of its toxicity.

Authorities, however, stressed there is no immediate threat to swimmers or tourists. Medical and tourism organizations in Crete said the fish have been present in the Mediterranean for years and do not pose a direct danger to people using beaches or bathing areas, urging the public to avoid unnecessary alarm.