As rabbitfish — an invasive species known locally as lagokephalos — appear in increasing numbers across Greek seas, alarming both fishermen and beachgoers during the peak tourist season, the Greek government has approved urgent measures to curb their spread.
Enhanced Bounty and Pilot Fishing Initiative
During a broad consultation held on Thursday, 25 June 2026, with Agriculture Minister Margaritis Schinas and representatives of the fishing sector, authorities announced a pilot targeted fishing program. Under this initiative, professional fishermen will be incentivized to catch and land rabbitfish, receiving direct compensation based on the weight they bring ashore.
The bounty has been set at €5.33 per kilogram — significantly higher than the €4.73 per kilogram offered to fishermen in Cyprus, where similar efforts are underway.
Comprehensive Support Framework
The pilot program, funded by European Union resources in Crete and the Southern Aegean, combines scientific monitoring with practical fisheries management. Key components include:
- Scientific surveillance of rabbitfish populations
- Systematic recording of catches
- Identification of key aggregation and spawning areas
- Collaboration with research institutions
- Use of digital tools for real-time data collection and analysis
- Development of safe, sustainable protocols for handling and managing the biomass collected
These coordinated actions aim not only to reduce the ecological and economic impact of the invasive species but also to support livelihoods in vulnerable coastal communities.