The presence of the pufferfish in the Cyprus ecosystem, known locally as the lagokefalos, has been an ongoing challenge for around a decade, according to a professional fisherman speaking on Radio Proto.
He noted that the species is now considered part of daily reality for those working at sea, as it continues to cause significant damage to fishing equipment and catches.
Fishermen describe impact on the industry
The fisherman, identified as Christos, said the pufferfish situation has been persistent and widely recognised among professionals in the sector.
He stressed that while the fish causes “huge damage”, some reports circulating on social media exaggerate its behaviour, particularly claims of aggressive encounters near beaches.
He added that fishermen working daily in the sea have never witnessed such incidents, dismissing viral claims as misleading.
Government response and compensation scheme
Christos also referred positively to the support provided by the Department of Fisheries and relevant ministries once the issue emerged.
He explained that authorities introduced a compensation scheme for captured pufferfish specimens from Cyprus, initially paying €1 per kilogram, later increasing the rate to €4.75 per kilogram.
According to him, this measure encouraged systematic collection by professional fishermen as part of organised efforts to reduce the population.
Disposal and control measures
Captured fish are transported in groups to designated facilities in Kofinou, where they are destroyed in incineration units.
The fisherman said the process is coordinated and structured, with teams collecting specimens in large numbers to manage the population more effectively.
Behaviour and safety clarification
He further clarified that the pufferfish species is typically found in deeper waters rather than shallow coastal areas.
Despite widespread concern, he stated that he had never personally encountered or heard of verified attacks on swimmers.
The statements aim to address public fear while highlighting the continued ecological and economic challenge posed by the invasive species in Cypriot waters.
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