Toxic fish with a nasty bite holidays in the Med

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, July 7, 2026

The silver-cheeked toadfish, a toxic and dangerously strong-jawed species, has been increasingly spotted in Greek coastal waters, prompting warnings and safety measures from authorities. To protect swimmers and reduce its population, officials have installed floating barriers near shorelines and introduced a bounty program offering payment for each kilogram of the fish caught.

A species of pufferfish known as the silver-cheeked toadfish or harefish has been increasingly spotted in the Mediterranean Sea, raising concerns among authorities and residents in popular coastal regions of Greece. The fish is recognized for its powerful jaws, capable of biting through human finger bones, and its flesh contains a potent neurotoxin that poses health risks if consumed.

The Hellenic Red Cross has issued warnings about the growing presence of the harefish in Greek waters, particularly around the island of Evia. Believed to have migrated from their native Indian Ocean habitat via the Suez Canal, the fish appear to be expanding their range as sea temperatures rise. While the creature’s bite is not venomous, its strong, beak-like jaws can inflict serious injuries accompanied by heavy bleeding. Authorities emphasize that all parts of the fish are unsafe to eat due to variations in toxin distribution within its flesh.

In response to these developments, Greek officials have implemented safety measures to protect swimmers. Floating barriers anchored to the seabed have been installed near shorelines on Evia to fence off designated swimming areas. Health experts advise individuals who sustain bites to thoroughly clean their wounds and seek specialized medical treatment, which may include tetanus vaccination and stitches. Reports indicate that a recent bite incident involving an elderly woman required medical attention.

To encourage removal of the fish from local waters, authorities in Athens have introduced a bounty program offering €5.33 (approximately £4.56) for each kilogram of harefish handed in. The initiative aims to limit the potential threat the species poses to bathers and to reduce its numbers in vulnerable coastal zones.

The silver-cheeked toadfish’s migration has sparked concern given its impact both on public safety and local ecosystems. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, coordinating efforts to manage the species’ presence and protect residents and tourists enjoying Greece’s seaside destinations.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.