Marine invasive alien species (IAS) are spreading in the Mediterranean Sea, altering species composition and reshaping marine ecosystems. The study explores consumer attitudes towards the consumption of marine invasive alien species (IAS), particularly lionfish and Atlantic blue crab, in the Greek seafood market. These species are considered a threat to marine biodiversity but are also being considered for commercial seafood to mitigate their ecological impact. Through surveys of consumers and seafood retailers, the research finds that while Greek consumers show a positive attitude towards consuming these species, they often lack awareness of their ecological impact. Retailers see potential in promoting these invasive species, with freshness, hygiene, and poison concerns being the most important factors for consumers when purchasing seafood. In general, there is a need for better public education regarding the ecological and health impacts of IAS consumption. Factors that could increase consumption include recommendations from seafood retailers, promotion by TV cooking shows, and quality certifications. The study suggests that aligning consumer education with conservation goals could help control the spread of IAS while supporting local fisheries.

The spread of non-indigenous species (NIS) in the Mediterranean poses complex challenges for coastal fisheries, yet the perceptions and adaptive responses of small-scale fishers remain poorly understood. This study surveyed 70 professional fishers across Greek insular and mainland ports to assess fishers’ local ecological knowledge, awareness, and operational strategies related to eleven established marine NIS. Semi-structured interviews recorded demographic and effort profiles, recognition rates, perceived environmental and economic impacts, catch frequencies, gear damage, injury incidents, and behavioral changes. Fishers in the study area demonstrated high overall awareness (~95%), but variable recognition of less familiar taxa (e.g., bigfin reef squid, squirrelfish). Venomous and gear-damaging species (pufferfish, lionfish, rabbitfish) were predominantly viewed negatively, with significant reported gear losses (EUR 600–1345 yr⁻¹) and avoidance of high-incidence areas (25–30% of respondents). Conversely, commercially valuable NIS received more positive appraisals and are increasingly targeted. Spatial heterogeneity in perceptions and adaptations underscores the need for regionally tailored management that integrates fishers’ knowledge, promotes safe handling and selective exploitation of marketable NIS, and supports adaptive governance to mitigate ecological risks while enhancing socioeconomic resilience.