Danger near the shore: rising pufferfish population threatens Cyprus beaches

A sharp increase in the number of toxic pufferfish (lagopsaro, lagocephalus) off the coast is causing serious concern among experts and environmentalists. According to Haber Kıbrıs, the fish is increasingly found not only in the open sea but also in shallow water — at a depth of only about 30 centimeters.

Experts warn that this behavior significantly increases risks for vacationers. Pufferfish possess powerful jaws and are capable of not only biting bait off fishing lines but also inflicting injuries during accidental contact with people in the water.

The situation in the northern part of Cyprus is particularly alarming, where experts believe the problem has worsened due to a long-term lack of systemic measures. Meanwhile, programs to control the population of this species are already being implemented in Turkey and on the Greek Cypriot side.

Environmentalists emphasize that the expanding range of the pufferfish poses a threat not only to humans but also to the marine ecosystem, as this species actively displaces local fauna.

Residents and tourists are advised to exercise increased caution when visiting beaches, especially families with children. Experts urge authorities to urgently develop comprehensive measures to curb the spread of the dangerous fish, warning that without intervention, the situation could spiral out of control.