The Mediterranean is increasingly terrorized by an aggressive fish that is extremely dangerous for humans. The silverback fourtooth, which is not among the native marine fauna in this region, has spread to both Greek and Croatian waters. , consumption of this species can be fatal.
- The silverstripe fourtooth is an invasive poisonous fish that has spread to the Mediterranean Sea.
- The tetrodotoxin in the body of the four-tooth can cause fatal poisoning even after cooking.
- The population of four-toothed salmon has increased due to climate change and overfishing.
- The fish behaves more and more aggressively due to the lack of natural predators in the ecosystem.
In a recent study was classified among the hundred most dangerous invasive species in Europe. Experts describe it as a dangerous marine predator whose presence significantly disrupts ecosystems. His body contains the deadly neurotoxin tetrodotoxin, which is not destroyed even by cooking, and therefore poses a huge risk to human health.
“The exponential increase in the population of this species is probably related to climate change and the rising temperature of the Mediterranean waters,” said oceanography professor Drosos Koutsoumpas. At the same time, he identified overfishing as another key factor in the spread of this fish.
The invasive fish has spread to the Mediterranean. (illustrative photo)
Source:
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When asked if the four-tooth sharks attack swimmers, marine biologist Christos Taklis said that most of the recorded incidents happened after people tried to feed or pet them in shallow water.. However, the scientist notes that this fish has behaved significantly more aggressively in the last two years.
“The reason is its massive spread and the lack of natural predators in the ecosystem that would limit its reproduction. That is why we observe changes in its behavior, size and weight“, he explained.
What if a quadruped bites you?
Although the bite itself is not poisonous, its powerful beak-like jaws can cause deep wounds and profuse bleeding. After such an incident, experts recommend washing the wound thoroughly with clean water and soap and pressing the bleeding site firmly with gauze or a clean cloth.
If the bleeding is intense, it is necessary to constantly press on the wound and keep the injured limb in an elevated position. For more serious injuries, seek medical attention immediately, because due to the depth of the wound, it may be necessary to sew it up and administer a tetanus injection.
The uncontrolled spread of these fish causes enormous economic damage to fishermen as well. The four-tooth can damage their equipment, including rods and fishing lines, with its strong teeth. In addition, it eats marine animals such as cuttlefish, octopus and squid, depriving local fishermen of their catches.
