Balloonfish Invasion Threatens Livelihoods of Fishermen on Crete, Greece

Balloonfish rapidly spread across Crete, putting Greek fishermen’s lives at risk. Invasive species known as Lagocephalus sceleratus worsens pressure on fisheries’ sustainability today.

Balloonfish originally from Indian and Pacific Oceans now alter Mediterranean marine ecology significantly.

Since two thousand three, balloonfish entered Mediterranean through the Suez Canal journey. First observed in Crete, then Rhodes, this invasive species became widespread throughout Greece.

Marine biologist Karachle highlights balloonfish points towards broader invasive species crisis regionally. At least two hundred invasive species, including shrimp, jellyfish, threaten Greece’s sea biodiversity.