Greece Launches Rabbitfish Hunt: Fishermen to Receive 5.33 Euros Per Kilo

A bounty program is set to launch in Greece, offering fishermen 5.33 euros per kilogram for catching rabbitfish. This initiative targets the invasive species that has proliferated in Greek waters, causing significant damage to local fisheries and posing a nuisance to swimmers. The program aims to curb the growing population of rabbitfish and mitigate its negative ecological and economic impacts.

Fishermen operating small boats and trawlers are anticipating the official start of this pilot program. They express a strong desire for the eradication efforts to commence quickly, hoping to avert further economic devastation caused by the invasive fish. The initiative is seen as a crucial step towards restoring the marine ecosystem and supporting the livelihoods of the fishing communities.

The pilot phase of the rabbitfish control program will be implemented in Crete and the South Aegean region. Authorities are considering expanding the program to other areas in the near future, depending on its success and effectiveness in the initial locations. This measure reflects a proactive approach by Greece to manage invasive species and protect its valuable marine resources.