The appearance of a poisonous fish, the silver tetraodon, has been recorded in the Black Sea. The tropical predator is an invasive species that threatens marine biodiversity, fisheries and human health.
This was reported by the State Environmental Inspectorate of the South-West District.
Silver tetraodon: what is known about the puffer fish
“This exotic fish has the ability to inflate like a balloon, and the silver pufferfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), or puffer fish, is a deadly poisonous invasive species,” the report says.
The tropical predator originates from the Indo-Pacific region. Through the Suez Canal, it entered the Mediterranean and then the Black Sea.
Now watching
The presence of an invasive species off the Ukrainian coast of the Black Sea was first reported in 2014.
The fish contains tetrodotoxin, a powerful poison that affects the nervous system. Even a tiny dose can be fatal if consumed, environmentalists say.
The pufferfish has super-strong jaws that can easily gnaw through fishing nets and destroy the catch. The predator feeds on mollusks, fish and crustaceans, which puts local species at risk.
Impact on the Mediterranean and threat to the Black Sea
In the Mediterranean Sea, the spread of bulletfish has already caused significant economic losses for local fishermen.
Due to climate change, there is a high probability that this species will expand its range to the Black Sea. This creates a serious
Due to global warming, there is a high probability that this species will expand its range to the Black Sea. This poses a serious threat to biodiversity, small-scale fisheries and human health.
Environmentalists are calling for vigilance if similar fish are found:
- take a photo or video with a scale (ruler, hand) so that you can estimate the size of the fish;
- write down the coordinates or exact location of the discovery;
- inform the State Environmental Inspectorate.