Turkey increases quota for invasive pufferfish hunting

The Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has increased the support quota for hunting invasive pufferfish species to combat their spread in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas. According to a regulation published on September 23, 2026, the quota for seven specific pufferfish species—including Lagocephalus spadiceus and Lagocephalus suezensis—has been raised from 200,000 to 1 million units.

Under the new regulation, fishermen will receive 10 TL per fish for these seven species. For the more dangerous spotted pufferfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), the quota remains at 100,000 units with a higher support rate of 25 to 35 TL per fish. The program aims to reduce invasive populations, protect natural fish stocks, and mitigate economic losses suffered by local fishermen.

Data shows that since the program's inception in 2020, over 665,000 pufferfish have been caught under the support scheme. In 2025, significant support payments were distributed in regions such as Adana and Antalya.