Invasive and poisonous catfish spotted along TRNC coastline, Ministry warns

The North Cyprus Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources has issued a public advisory following confirmed sightings of the poisonous striped eel catfish (Plotosus lineatus) along it's coastlines.

This species, known for its rapid spread across the Mediterranean, poses ecological risks and potential danger to fishermen and the public.

In a statement released this week, the Ministry identified the striped eel catfish as one of several invasive species migrating from the Indo-Pacific region into the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal. The species threatens local biodiversity and has now been officially recorded at multiple locations around the island.

The catfish was first observed in 2022 off Cape Zafer in the island’s northeast. It was later caught off the coast of Southern Cyprus in September 2023 and most recently detected in early 2025 off Lapta. On April 28, 2025, it was again found in fishing nets off the coast of Gazimağusa, suggesting its spread has reached across TRNC’s entire shoreline.

Health and Safety Advisory

The Ministry underscored the need for caution when encountering the striped eel catfish, highlighting the following key points:

-The species typically moves in shoals close to the sea floor.

-It possesses a venomous spine on both its dorsal and pectoral fins.

-Contact with these spines can result in severe pain and injury.

-While the fish is technically edible, it should only be handled with protective gloves and appropriate equipment.

-In the event of envenomation, the affected area should be immersed in water as hot as tolerable (around 45°C), and immediate medical attention should be sought.

Public Urged to Report Sightings

Efforts to monitor the spread of Plotosus lineatus, raise public awareness, and mitigate its impact on the marine ecosystem are ongoing. The Ministry has called on citizens to report any sightings to the Fisheries Branch of the Department of Animal Husbandry to assist in containment and tracking efforts.