22/05/2026
Update:
The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), on behalf of the Government of Liberia, is issuing an urgent public health advisory regarding the dangerous fish species commonly known as the Pufferfish, Blowfish, or Balloon Fish, which appeared along the shores of Marshall Beach in Margibi County on Friday, May 22, 2026.
Many species of pufferfish contain a highly potent toxin known as tetrodotoxin, particularly concentrated in the liver, ovaries, intestines, and skin. This toxin is extremely hazardous to both humans and animals and remains dangerous even after the fish has been cooked, smoked, or dried.
NaFAA strongly warns the public not to consume this fish under any circumstance unless it has been properly identified and prepared by internationally certified experts.
Consumption of toxic pufferfish may result in severe health complications, including:
* Tingling or numbness of the lips and tongue
* Dizziness and vomiting
* Weakness or paralysis
* Difficulty breathing
* Severe poisoning that may result in death
Tetrodotoxin attacks the nervous system, and there is currently no specific antidote available for poisoning caused by this toxin.
Public Safety Advisory
In light of these serious risks, the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority advises the following:
* All citizens should immediately avoid buying, selling, handling, or consuming this fish.
* Fishermen who accidentally catch this species should carefully and immediately return it to the ocean.
* Fishmongers and coastal communities are encouraged to report any sightings or catches of this fish to the nearest NaFAA office or local fisheries authority.
* Pet owners should keep animals away from stranded or dead pufferfish found on beaches, as the fish may remain toxic even after death.
While some countries, including Japan, permit specially trained chefs to prepare certain species of pufferfish under strict regulations, NaFAA emphasizes that such preparation standards and regulatory controls are not currently established in Liberia for public consumption.
The Government of Liberia remains committed to protecting public health, food safety, and marine biodiversity. Citizens are encouraged to cooperate fully with NaFAA and local authorities to ensure that this dangerous species does not enter local food markets or households.