The rabbitfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus) has been present in the waters off Cyprus for at least the past 20 years, with no recorded attacks on swimmers, according to a statement issued by the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research (TAHE).

According to the statement, consuming this particular species can have adverse effects on humans. Furthermore, this species significantly affects commercial fishermen, as it causes damage to both fishing gear and the catch.

The rabbitfish is a poisonous fish of Indo-Pacific origin, which entered the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal and is considered one of the most harmful invasive species in the Mediterranean, mainly due to: (a) its rapid spread, (b) its ecological characteristics, as it is a species with a broad dietary range, (c) its ability to adapt to different environmental conditions and the limited number of natural predators in our region, (d) the neurotoxin present in its body, which makes it unfit for consumption, and (e) the impacts it has on fisheries and marine biodiversity in general.

It should be noted in particular that it contains potent tetrodotoxin in its tissues, which can cause food poisoning; for this reason, its consumption is prohibited. It is a predator with a wide range of dietary preferences, equipped with a powerful beak, and its significant presence and spread cause major damage to coastal fisheries.

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The TATHE, recognizing the problems faced by fishermen due to this species, has already implemented plans to mitigate the impacts from the two previous programming periods, 2007–2013 and 2014–2020, the report states.

During the current programming period, the Grant Program to limit the spread of the rabbitfish has been in effect since June 2024 and will continue through the end of 2029. Through this program, professional fishermen are exerting intense, targeted fishing pressure on the rabbitfish population, with a payment rate of 4.73 euros per kilogram.

According to the announcement, the rabbitfish, like other non-native species, has been established in our waters for years and is now part of our ecosystem. Any measures taken are focused on mitigating the impact this species has on our fisheries.

It should be emphasized once again that swimmers are not at any particular risk on the beaches. However, people should avoid disturbing or feeding the rabbitfish if they encounter one, as is the case with any wild species.

Finally, the Cyprus Marine Park Authority urges the public to stay informed through reliable sources regarding the presence of the rabbitfish in Cyprus’s marine waters, such as the Authority’s website, in order to avoid alarm and panic.