“Alarm Over Pufferfish Invasion in Greek Seas” – MP Manos Konsolas Calls for Immediate Action
The growing spread of invasive pufferfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus) in Greek waters has prompted New Democracy MP for the Dodecanese, Manos Konsolas, to submit a parliamentary question to the Minister of Rural Development and Food, urging immediate measures to address the issue and support fishermen affected by the phenomenon.
According to the MP, the problem is no longer confined to the waters around Crete and the Dodecanese. The species has now been detected in several other regions, including the Saronic Gulf and the Evia Gulf, signaling a broader expansion throughout Greek seas.
The pufferfish is a highly toxic invasive species whose presence in the Mediterranean has been linked to climate change and shifting environmental conditions. Besides posing a deadly risk if consumed, the species disrupts marine ecosystems and has been associated with attacks on swimmers, raising concerns about public safety and tourism.
The economic impact on the fishing sector is also significant. Fishermen report extensive damage to fishing nets and equipment, increasing operational costs and threatening livelihoods.
Mr. Konsolas cites recent scientific findings suggesting that environmental conditions in Greek waters are likely to remain favorable for the species until at least 2035. While complete eradication may not be realistic, he argues that reducing both the population and its impact is an achievable goal through targeted interventions.
Among the measures proposed are subsidies for fishermen to acquire specialized fishing gear for catching pufferfish and compensation schemes for their removal. He also points to Cyprus as a successful example, where a similar model helped control the species’ population while enabling the collection of biomass for other uses.
The Dodecanese MP is now asking the government to clarify what immediate actions it intends to take to tackle an issue that increasingly affects marine biodiversity, fisheries, and tourism across Greece.
