Toxic pufferfish invasion alarms Croatian holiday hotspots
As we approach the upcoming summer season, scientists are raising alarms about the toxic fish, Lagocephalus sceleratus, which has been spotted in Medulin Bay, Croatia. This fish poses a significant threat to both tourists and local wildlife. Experts recommend developing strategies to curb its reproduction and establishing an alert system to warn visitors.
Scientists are particularly concerned because the toxic fish Lagocephalus sceleratus has been sighted in Medulin Bay. Renowned for its dangerous bites and highly poisonous flesh, it poses a risk to tourists and the environment alike.
Researchers have confirmed these sightings as the northernmost occurrence of this pufferfish species.
Threat to tourism and safety
Lagocephalus sceleratus, also referred to as the silver-cheeked toadfish, is typically found in the tropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. However, having traversed the Suez Canal, it now threatens tourist hotspots in the Mediterranean and Adriatic regions.
Dr Neven Iveša from Juraj Dobrila University in Croatia highlights that this fish is aggressive, and its bites can cause serious injuries, including the potential amputation of fingers.
Ecological and economic consequences
The appearance of this fish in the northern Adriatic serves as a warning, highlighting its expansion, which could trigger ecological and economic repercussions.
Due to its predatory nature and absence of natural predators, the fish significantly affects biodiversity. Its presence also damages fishing efforts by ruining nets in its search for food.
Consequently, this fish threatens public safety and endangers local ecosystems and the fishing industry. Its flesh contains tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin that can be lethal if ingested.
Increase in occurrences
Since the first documented sighting in the Adriatic in 2012, encounters with Lagocephalus sceleratus have become more frequent. Last May, a 20-inch male was caught at a depth of approximately 66 feet. This marked the fourth such incident in the Adriatic.
Scientists' recommendations
In anticipation of the holiday season, scientists advocate for proactively monitoring this species and implementing management strategies to mitigate its impact on safety.
They also propose capturing the fish during spawning periods, raising public awareness about the risks, and encouraging the reporting of sightings. The findings were published in Acta Ichthyologica et Piscatoria.
