**Title: Invasive Pufferfish Pose ‘No Threat to Swimmers Unless Disturbed’**
The fisheries department of Cyprus has reassured the public that the invasive silver-cheeked toadfish, known scientifically as Lagocephalus sceleratus, does not pose a threat to swimmers or bathers. This statement comes in response to recent concerns circulating on social media and in public discussions regarding the safety of this species in the water.
Officials from the fisheries department emphasized that there is no evidence of unprovoked attacks on humans by the silver-cheeked toadfish. They stated that the fish is only dangerous when consumed, urging the public to remain calm and not to panic. "The fish poses no threat to bathers or swimmers. It is only poisonous when consumed," officials explained.
The recent surge in concern appears to stem from various reports and videos that have circulated online, which depict encounters between humans and the fish. However, environmental organization iSea has also stepped in to clarify the situation. Anastasia Charitou, communications manager for iSea, stated that claims of attacks on bathers are unsupported by any available evidence. She noted that the few reported encounters in Cyprus and Greece typically involved individuals who approached, touched, or fed the fish while it was trapped in shallow waters.
Biologist and oceanographer Evagoras Isaias echoed these sentiments, asserting that there have been no recorded incidents of attacks on swimmers in Cyprus. He explained that the fish will only defend itself when disturbed, and that many of the videos circulating on social media show individuals provoking a reaction by getting too close or feeding the fish. "Under no circumstances can you swim and be attacked by a lagokefalos," Charitou emphasized, adding that even snorkelers are unlikely to encounter aggressive behavior from the species.
The silver-cheeked toadfish has been in Cypriot waters for approximately 20 years, having entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal. It has established itself as one of the most successful invasive fish species in the region, thanks to its rapid growth and adaptability to various habitats and food sources. The species can grow to over one meter in length and contains tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin primarily concentrated in its liver. Consumption of the fish can lead to severe health consequences, including paralysis, respiratory failure, and potentially death, as there is currently no antidote for the toxin. Consequently, the sale and marketing of the silver-cheeked toadfish are prohibited throughout the European Union.
While authorities have consistently warned against consuming the fish, they also acknowledge that the challenges it presents differ significantly for fishermen compared to the general public. The silver-cheeked toadfish is known to cause considerable damage to fishing nets, gear, and catches due to its strong beak-like teeth, which can tear through equipment and prey on fish trapped in nets.
In an effort to manage the invasive species, the fisheries department has implemented a government-funded eradication program, which began in 2024. This initiative has resulted in the removal of over 103 tonnes of silver-cheeked toadfish from Cypriot waters, with around 150 professional fishermen participating in the scheme, which compensates them at a rate of €4.73 per kilogram collected. Despite these efforts, fisheries officials acknowledge that completely eradicating the species is unlikely.
Environmental organizations are urging the public to focus on the broader implications of invasive species, particularly their impact on biodiversity, fisheries, and marine ecosystems, rather than fears of attacks on swimmers. "There is no reason for a bather to take precautions against lagokefalos attacks," Charitou reiterated.
In summary, while the silver-cheeked toadfish is indeed a significant concern for the fishing industry and poses health risks if consumed, it does not represent a danger to swimmers or bathers unless provoked. Authorities and environmental groups continue to advocate for public awareness regarding the ecological challenges posed by invasive species, rather than unfounded fears of direct encounters in the water.