Dangerous guest of the Mediterranean: authorities warn of pufferfish risks

The Department of Animal Husbandry under the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources of the TRNC issued a warning about the increase in pufferfish populations in the Eastern Mediterranean and urged citizens to avoid any contact with this species. According to the department, the pufferfish is a wild and potentially dangerous animal to humans that should not be approached, fed, or touched.

The statement notes that rising sea surface temperatures caused by climate change are having a significant impact on marine ecosystems. This leads to the displacement of local fish species into deeper waters and facilitates the spread of invasive species, including Lagocephalus sceleratus — one of the most dangerous representatives.

Authorities emphasize that changes in the marine environment are caused by a complex of factors, including climate change, intensive fishing, and habitat transformation. To combat invasive species, the state continues to support fishermen: between 2010 and 2025, more than 537,000 pufferfish were caught, for which over 2.5 million Turkish Liras were paid. From 2026, the subsidy is 40 Liras per fish.

In addition, support programs for fishermen are being implemented, aimed at reducing costs and increasing the industry's sustainability. In cooperation with international partners, initiatives are being introduced to modernize equipment and develop the sector's potential.

Special attention is paid to environmental protection: since 2023, several marine and coastal areas have been declared no-fishing zones. These measures are aimed at ecosystem restoration, supporting biodiversity, and developing sustainable tourism.

The department stressed that the ongoing changes are part of global ecological processes, and overcoming them requires a comprehensive approach combining nature protection, economic support, and ensuring public safety.