Zakynthos tourist hospitalized after bite by invasive pufferfish

A British tourist was rushed to a private clinic in Zakynthos, Greece, after being bitten by a fish while swimming in the Kalamaki area. Authorities are investigating whether the attacker was a silver-cheeked toadfish, an invasive species known locally as lagokefalos.

The silver-cheeked toadfish is characterized by powerful, beak-like jaws capable of biting through bone, wood, and metal. While the bite itself is not toxic, the fish’s flesh and organs contain tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin that can cause respiratory or cardiac failure if ingested. The Hellenic Red Cross and the National Public Health Organization (EODY) have issued warnings regarding the species.

Scientists link the rapid spread of this invasive species across the Mediterranean to rising sea temperatures and climate change. Having entered the region via the Suez Canal, the fish is now established in various parts of the Aegean and Ionian seas. Beyond the danger to swimmers, the species poses a significant threat to the fishing industry by destroying nets and competing with local marine life. In response, some Greek authorities have implemented measures such as floating barriers and financial incentives for fishermen to catch the fish.