Greece launched a cash incentive program on June 26, 2026, offering fishermen 5.33 euros per kilogram for catching silver-cheeked toadfish. The initiative aims to address the impact of the invasive species on local fisheries and public health.

Agriculture Minister Margaritis Schinas said in an interview, "It's the first time that such a measure has been taken in Greece." Schinas added that the program, initially targeting affected islands, would likely be expanded to cover all Greek waters. Caught silver-cheeked toadfish will be frozen and incinerated at local government facilities.

The silver-cheeked toadfish is a torpedo-shaped species characterized by prominent teeth. The skin and organs of the fish contain a neurotoxin that can cause heart failure in humans if consumed. The Greek Red Cross issued a public health warning outlining first-aid protocols for bleeding from potential bites and noting the presence of the deadly neurotoxin.

Damage to fishing nets by silver-cheeked toadfish has been reported off the coast of Crete and other Greek islands in recent weeks. Giorgos Kyriakakis, a member of a Cretan fishermen's association, described the financial burden fishermen face. "They eat our catch and damage our nets — that's very costly," Kyriakakis said. He added, "It's got to the point where we might go out fishing one day and then spend the next three days fixing our nets." Authorities have stated that these fish have not been sighted in bathing areas at Greek island resorts.

The silver-cheeked toadfish is believed to have entered the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal. Cyprus launched a similar catch program for the species earlier in 2026. Online videos posted by Greek fishing crews have shown silver-cheeked toadfish biting soda cans and pieces of wood.