ATHENS, Greece, Feb. 28 (UPI) -- Greek marine experts say an exotic fish that has been found in the eastern Mediterranean is poisonous to humans if eaten.
Researchers at the Rhodes Hydrobiological Station said the silver-stripe blaasop, which is native to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean and has recently been recorded traveling to the Mediterranean, has a toxic substance in its liver, skin and reproductive organs that can cause humans consuming the fish to suffer fatal muscle paralysis and problems with breathing or circulation, Ekatherimini reported Wednesday.
The fish, which can reach lengths exceeding one yard, is characterized by its silvery-gray color with black spots, a white belly and a bright silver stripe along its side.
"This fish is a source of poison for human beings if eaten, with a high risk of fatality," the Hellenic Center for Medical Research said in a notice sent to Greek port authorities.
Andreas Sioulas, director of the Rhodes station, said the fish's presence in the Mediterranean has increased dramatically since first being spotted in summer 2005.
