The puffer fish, with its large body, round eyes, huge teeth, and inflated belly when out of the water, is a relatively recent addition to the catches of Mediterranean fishermen. Some nets even contain only puffer fish anymore. This fish, although seemingly cute, poses a significant challenge in the Mediterranean today.
It found in the Mediterranean belong to the Tetraodontidae family. There are about 5 species currently existing in the Mediterranean, varying in colors and sizes, including olive green and yellow varieties.
The impact of the Suez Channel
The Suez Canal, opened in 1869 and it connects the Gulf of Suez to the Red Sea and plays a vital role in global shipping. Various species, including fish and shrimps, pass from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean through this canal. The first signs of puffer fish in the Mediterranean appeared in the 1990s, leading to their widespread presence along the Eastern Mediterranean coasts, including areas like Mersin, Adana, Iskenderun, Tartus, Latakia, Beirut, Tel Aviv, and Alexandria. These invasive fish disrupt local ecosystems, damaging nets, consuming the eggs of resident species, and posing a threat to both marine life and humans.
The spread of puffer fish in the Mediterranean is influenced by climate. The Red Sea, where these fish are mainly found, has higher water temperatures (ranging from 18 to 28 degrees in celsius) compared to the Mediterranean. Warmer waters facilitate uncontrolled reproduction of these fish, leading to challenges in the ecosystem. Puffer fish reproduce prolifically, laying between 10.000 and 22.000 eggs per gram. The Mediterranean's colder temperatures act as a natural suppressor to their uncontrolled multiplication.
Dangers of puffer fish and Tetradotoxin - TTX
Puffer fish carry tetradotoxin (TTX), a potent toxin that blocks respiratory systems and sodium pumps. TTX accumulates in the liver, skin, and meat of the fish. It poses severe health risks, and there is no developed antidote. Contact with the fish's skin can lead to poisoning. Cooking or processing the fish does not eliminate the toxin. The presence of TTX makes consuming puffer fish extremely dangerous, and there is a need for public awareness about the risks associated with this species.
The invasion of puffer fish in the Mediterranean presents a significant challenge to the region's marine ecosystem. Their rapid spread demands urgent attention and action from coastal communities, municipalities, and universities. Public awareness campaigns are necessary to inform people about the dangers of puffer fish, the risks of tetradotoxin, and the importance of not consuming or handling them without proper protection. It's crucial to work collectively to preserve the Mediterranean's delicate balance and protect both marine life and human safety.
