A deadly pufferfish is moving towards a popular holiday spot for Britons.

Fish have started to appear regularly in the Mediterranean Sea after swimming through the Suez Canal.

It is usually found in the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

However, it has now been spotted off the coast of Croatia.

Scientists say the pufferfish is a “direct threat to tourism, especially in areas frequented by swimmers”.

Lead researcher Dr Neven Iveša said:

“This invasive species is known for its aggressive behaviour with reported cases of bites causing significant injuries.

“Alarmingly, recent evidence from the southern and eastern Mediterranean shows that these bites can result in severe injuries, such as partial amputation of fingers.

“Aside from its dangerous bite, the fish is also a risk due to its flesh and organs.

“They have a potent neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin, which can be lethal if consumed.”

Last year researchers caught a 52cm long male weighing just over a kilo 65 feet below sea level.

It’s the northernmost sighting so far.

Dr Iveša added: “Although such cases are rare, they highlight the potential danger this species poses to humans.

“These risks not only create safety concerns for swimmers but also threaten the image and appeal of tourist destinations.

“This potentially leads to economic losses in local tourism and related industries.”

Scientists are looking at a “targeted removal” of the fish during its spawning period.