Work

Northernmost Mediterranean record of the silver-cheeked toadfish, Lagocephalus sceleratus (Actinopterygii, Tetraodontiformes, Tetraodontidae)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study reports the first capture of Lagocephalus sceleratus in the northern Adriatic, specifically in Medulin Bay at a depth of 19.7 m. The specimen, a 522 mm male weighing 1330 g, was caught on 13 May 2024. This is the fourth record in the Adriatic and the northernmost one for both the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas. Stomach analysis revealed bivalves, gastropods, sea urchin fragments, and inorganic particles. The further spread of this tetraodontid species in the Adriatic poses ecological and socio-economic risks, such as disruptions to fisheries, biodiversity loss, and threats to marine ecosystems. Effective management requires monitoring, regulation, public education, and citizen science involvement.

Source: Acta Ichthyologica Et Piscatoria

DOI: 10.3897/aiep.55.146945

Authors: Neven Iveša, Moira Buršić, Jakov Dulčić

Institutions: Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries

Language: English

Topic: Fish Biology and Ecology Studies

Subfield: Aquatic Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Life below water

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $593