Invasive marine species in Turkish waters

Invasive fish species from the Red Sea are increasing in population within the Antalya Gulf, specifically near the Konyaaltı coast. Researchers attribute this migration to rising sea temperatures and the climate crisis. These species, including red-striped, cave, shadow, and triangle fish, are displacing native populations by competing for food and habitat.

In response to these ecological shifts, local authorities in Turkey have initiated ongoing awareness and monitoring efforts. Most recently, the Antalya Metropolitan Municipality organized the 7th Lionfish Hunting and Tasting Event at Finike Gökliman. Held in collaboration with the Mediterranean Marine Products Research, Production and Training Institute, the Antalya Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, and the Finike Fisheries Cooperative, the event aimed to protect the Mediterranean’s ecological balance.

Nine teams participated in the competition, diving for three hours to catch 117 lionfish weighing 16.438 kilograms. The Mavikent Team, consisting of Osman Öncel and Mustafa Demir, won the major categories for catching the most lionfish and the largest specimen. Following the competition, a tasting event was held to demonstrate to the public that lionfish are edible. Officials noted that interest in these awareness-raising events increases annually as part of efforts to protect marine biodiversity.

Scientific data indicates a broader trend of Lessepsian migration through the Suez Canal, affecting both the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Research has identified 539 foreign species in Turkish waters, with 404 establishing resident populations and 105 exhibiting invasive characteristics. Experts have also warned of risks posed by species such as the pufferfish, which contains toxic tetrodotoxin.