British tourists warned over 'fish that can bite your toes off' detected in sea

British tourists warned over 'fish that can bite your toes off' detected in sea The silver-cheeked pufferfish, also known as Lagocephalus sceleratus, is normally found in the Indian Ocean but has now been spotted in the Mediterranean after entering through the Suez Canal British holidaymakers heading to the Mediterranean have faced warnings in recent weeks regarding problems with the EES (Entry & Exit System) alongside the 40 degree plus heatwave predicted for the continent next week. However, a fresh danger potentially awaits them in the shape of a fish, specifically the silver-cheeked pufferfish. This species, also known by its Latin name of Lagocephalus sceleratus, typically inhabits the Indian Ocean. Reports have now emerged that the fish, which possesses teeth so sharp it could sever a swimmer's toe or finger, has now made its way into the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal. Consequently, tourists are being urged to remain alert when entering the water, although it remains statistically improbable they'll encounter one of these pufferfish. Earlier this year, a Greek woman suffered a bite while swimming off the coast from the Varkiza resort near Athens when, despite offering no provocation, the fish launched an attack. Discussing the matter with the Telegraph, expert Nota Peristeraki from the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, explained the attacks have taken place when individuals have attempted to touch the fish, reports the Express. They said: "Some attacks have happened when people have tried to feed or touch the fish. There have been a couple of cases of people losing a finger or a toe." Furthermore, the Greek Red Cross has since issued advice on how individuals should react if they sustain an injury from one of the fish. As well as seeking medical assistance immediately, they should cleanse the wound with soap and water and apply pressure to stem the bleeding. While holidaymakers taking a swim need to be mindful of dangers from beneath, it is the threat from above that is generating significant alarm, with temperatures in certain areas of Europe predicted to soar to 44C in the coming days. Countries such as France have already introduced measures to attempt to minimise the impact, including, Sky reports, alcohol prohibitions at state-organised events. In Germany, heat warnings have been declared as temperatures are anticipated to climb into the high thirties. In Portugal, the peak temperatures are expected around midweek on Tuesday and Wednesday, while Italy is also bracing for high temperatures and Spain is enduring a continuing heatwave. Storm warnings have also been implemented across the continent. Back in the UK, temperatures won't quite reach the heights of 44C, but with potential peaks of 38C, they will approach the 40C heatwave witnessed in 2022. In anticipation of the heatwave, the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber health heat alert for areas of England, including London. Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Forecaster for the Met Office Tom Crabtree warned Britons would face a double fronted threat. He said: "As well as very high daytime temperatures, there will be consecutive nights where temperatures do not drop below 20°C, which is called a Tropical Night. This will make it very hard for people to recover from the daytime heat, exacerbating the heat stress impacts."