A plan for financial aid to combat the invasive species through a program for compensation €5 per catch to limit the spread of the species in Greek waters.
A new framework for economic intervention to address the rabbitfish in Greek waters, one of the most problematic invasive species that have established themselves in the Mediterranean in recent years. The proposed measure provides for the payment of monetary compensation to commercial fishermen for each individual of the species caught and removed, as part of a broader strategy to control its population. The goal of the relevant authorities is to strengthen the active participation of the fishing industry in managing an ecological problem that has already had significant impacts on both marine biodiversity and commercial fisheries, especially in sensitive areas of the Eastern Mediterranean.
Fishermen will be compensated 5 euros for every rabbitfish they catch and deliver as part of the relevant program.
The rabbitfish
The rabbitfish, a highly aggressive and toxic invasive fish species that has invaded the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal, is causing significant problems for marine ecosystems and commercial fisheries. The species destroys fishing gear, competes with native fish, and may pose a risk to public health, as it contains a potent toxin.
As part of efforts to control the species’ population, commercial fishermen will receive compensation of 5 euros per rabbitfish, with the aim of encouraging its systematic capture and removal from Greek waters.
The program is expected to be implemented primarily in areas where the problem is most acute, such as the Dodecanese, Crete, and other marine zones of the Eastern Mediterranean.
The goal is to protect fisheries and the environment from the rabbitfish
Scientists point out that the uncontrolled spread of the rabbitfish threatens biodiversity and negatively affects the income of commercial fishermen. For this reason, financial incentives are considered an additional tool for controlling the species’ population and supporting the fishing industry.
At the same time, the competent authorities remind the public that the rabbitfish should not be consumed, as certain parts of its body contain dangerous toxins that can cause severe poisoning.
