Lorraine Williamson
A terrifying encounter in the waters off Playa de Palma, Mallorca, saw an elderly Italian woman hospitalised after being bitten by what experts believe may have been an aggressive tropical fish.
The incident, which triggered a full beach evacuation and emergency rescue operation, has reignited concerns about rising sea temperatures drawing unfamiliar marine predators closer to European shores.
The 85-year-old was enjoying a swim on Monday morning when she was suddenly attacked by an unidentified sea creature. She emerged from the water with a deep laceration on her lower left leg. It was approximately 10 centimetres wide and significantly bleeding. Though the wound spared muscle and bone, the extent of blood loss led to her being rushed to hospital in Palma for urgent treatment.
Lifeguards raise red flag as emergency services respond
Following the incident, beach lifeguards acted swiftly to clear the sea, raising the red flag and instructing swimmers to return to shore. Emergency responders were on site within minutes. Jet-ski patrols combed the surrounding waters, hoping to identify or locate the animal responsible.
Despite a two-hour search, no creature was found. Authorities eventually downgraded the red flag to yellow, reopening the beach but warning bathers to remain cautious.
Mystery predator: What bit the swimmer?
Initial speculation among beachgoers pointed to a possible shark sighting, with some claiming to have seen a fin. However, marine biologists from the Balearic Islands have ruled out both sharks and rays.
Their analysis suggests the culprit was more likely a grey triggerfish (Balistes capriscus)—a tropical species increasingly found in the Mediterranean. Known for its sharp, parrot-like teeth and unpredictable behaviour, the triggerfish becomes particularly aggressive during nesting periods. Its bite is strong enough to break skin and cause severe injuries, often without distinct bite marks.
Another possible suspect is the bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix), a fast-swimming predator with a history of attacks on swimmers. In 2006, a similar incident occurred in Alicante, where a young girl was bitten while paddling in shallow waters. Sightings of bluefish have since increased along Spain’s eastern and southern coastlines.
Warming waters attract unfamiliar predators
Experts warn that climate change is playing a role in shifting marine ecosystems. Warmer sea temperatures are pushing tropical species into new territories—including busy Mediterranean beaches. These changes, combined with growing tourist numbers, are leading to more frequent interactions between humans and marine wildlife.
While serious injuries remain rare, biologists and lifeguards alike urge beachgoers to stay vigilant and respect safety flags. “It’s still safe to enjoy the water,” one expert said, “but we must accept that the sea is changing, and with it, the species that call it home.”
Growing concerns as heatwaves persist
As Europe endures another scorching summer, Mediterranean waters continue to heat up. This warming trend is not only altering fish migration patterns but is also believed to increase the territorial aggression of some species.
With millions expected to visit the Balearic Islands in the coming weeks, local authorities have promised tighter beach monitoring and updated safety briefings for lifeguards.
If you’re heading to the beach this summer, here’s what to remember:
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Pay attention to red and yellow flag warnings
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Avoid swimming near rocks or in murky water
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Don’t provoke or try to touch marine life
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Report any unusual sightings to lifeguards immediately
This incident may be isolated, but it’s a sharp reminder that the sea is no longer as predictable as it once was.
Sources: Ultima hora, ABC