Lagocephalus sceleratus in the Mediterranean Sea – How dangerous is the pufferfish for divers in Cyprus really?

Lagocephalus sceleratus: An invasive visitor in the Mediterranean

In recent years, the name Lagocephalus sceleratus , also known as the silver-striped pufferfish, has appeared more and more frequently in the news – including around Cyprus. Originally from the Indo-Pacific, this species has spread through the Suez Canal into the Mediterranean and is now considered an invasive species.

Fishermen and authorities regularly warn about this fish. But what does that actually mean for divers and underwater safety?

Why is the pufferfish considered dangerous?

Lagocephalus sceleratus is primarily known for its highly toxic neurotoxin, tetrodotoxin . This toxin is mainly found in its organs, making it extremely dangerous to consume.

Important to understand:

• The danger mainly arises from consumption

• There have been several cases of poisoning in the Mediterranean region.

• It is not an aggressive species to humans underwater.

Risk of confusion: Not all pufferfish are the same.

An important note for divers and snorkelers:

Lagocephalus sceleratus is often confused with a much smaller relative – Torquigener flavimaculosus .

This little pufferfish:

• is also an invasive species in the Mediterranean

• It also contains toxins (tetrodotoxin).

• However, it remains very small.

• poses no danger to people underwater

  
  

Precisely because of its cute appearance, it is often perceived as a "harmless pufferfish". Nevertheless, the following also applies here:

👉 Do not touch – observation is enough.

For divers in Cyprus, this distinction is important:

• Torquigener flavimaculosus → small, common, harmless, stays mainly on the bottom

• Lagocephalus sceleratus → larger, rarer, problematic for the ecosystem

How high is the risk for divers in Cyprus?

The following applies to divers, snorkelers and participants of a try dive in Cyprus :

👉 The risk of injury is very low to practically non-existent.

Why?

• Pufferfish are not aggressive towards humans.

• They will not attack unless they feel threatened.

• They generally avoid direct contact.

The biggest risk would theoretically be:

• A deliberate touching

• Or the attempt to provoke the fish.

But this is precisely where the basic rules of diving come into play:

"Look, but don't touch."

In practice, we report as a local diving base in Cyprus :

• Sightings are rare, but are slowly increasing.

• There are no known incidents involving divers in the area.

A surprising ally: sea turtles

An often overlooked but important point is the natural balance in the ocean.

The loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) – a well-known species around Cyprus – is one of the few natural predators of Lagocephalus sceleratus.

That means:

• Turtles can help regulate the population.

• A functioning ecosystem reduces the spread of invasive species in the long term.

Why protecting turtles is more important than ever

Cyprus is an important habitat for sea turtles, in particular:

• Caretta caretta (loggerhead sea turtle)

• Chelonia mydas (Green Sea Turtle)

But these animals are under pressure due to:

• coastal development

• Plastic pollution

• Boat traffic

• Disruption in egg laying

👉 Protecting these animals is not only important for biodiversity, but also for the stability of the entire marine ecosystem.

What does this mean for divers and visitors?

As a diver or snorkeler, you can actively contribute:

✅ Keep your distance from all marine life

✅ Do not touch or feed the animals

✅ Control buoyancy (no damage to the reef)

✅ Avoid littering and collect it if necessary.

And above all: 👉 Respect for the underwater world of Cyprus

Conclusion: Media hype vs. underwater reality

Lagocephalus sceleratus is undoubtedly a problematic invasive species – especially for fishing and consumption.

However, for divers the following applies:

✅ No real danger with normal behavior

✅ Encounters are rare and harmless

✅ The bigger issue is the protection of the ecosystem.

And this is precisely where sea turtles play a crucial role.

Would you like to experience the fascinating underwater world of Cyprus for yourself – safely and responsibly?

👉 Discover our diving offers in Cyprus or try a Discover Scuba Diving experience with our experienced PADI diving instructors.

Frequently asked questions about the pufferfish in the Mediterranean

Is Lagocephalus sceleratus dangerous for divers?

No. For divers and snorkelers, the danger is very low to practically non-existent. The fish is not aggressive and will not attack people unless provoked or touched.

Why is the pufferfish in the news then?

Lagocephalus sceleratus contains a potent neurotoxin (tetrodotoxin) and is highly toxic if ingested. It poses a particular risk to fishermen and consumers – but not to divers.

What happens if you touch a pufferfish?

Even though the danger underwater is low, you should never touch the fish. Basic rule when diving: Observe, don't touch.

Are there any pufferfish in the Mediterranean that are harmless?

Yes. The small Torquigener flavimaculosus is also an invasive species and is poisonous, but poses no danger to humans. It remains very small and is often mistaken for harmless species.

How can I identify the dangerous pufferfish?

Lagocephalus sceleratus is larger, has an elongated shape, and often has dark spots on its back. Torquigener flavimaculosus is significantly smaller and appears more delicate.

Are there any natural enemies of the pufferfish?

Yes. Sea turtles such as the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) are among its natural predators and help to maintain the ecological balance.