The Methodology behind SeafoodGuideCY
SeafoodGuideCY was created to help consumers make more informed seafood choices based on environmental sustainability, fisheries impacts, and human health considerations.
The recommendations presented in this guide are based on available scientific literature, fisheries data, conservation assessments, regional management measures, and expert knowledge relevant to Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean. Information was gathered from both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities to reflect the realities of seafood production, trade, and consumption across the island.
Although fisheries regulations may differ between the two communities, marine ecosystems and fish populations are shared resources. For this reason, our assessments consider the broader ecological impacts associated with each species and fishing method. For example, while some fishing practices may be prohibited in certain areas, seafood originating from other parts of Cyprus or neighbouring countries may still be available on local markets. The guide therefore aims to provide consumers with information that remains relevant regardless of where seafood is purchased on the island.
This guide is not intended to be a complete catalogue of all marine species found in Cyprus. Instead, it focuses on selected species commonly encountered in local waters, fish markets, restaurants, and seafood shops, for which sufficient scientific and fisheries information is available.
How Species Are Assessed
Each species was evaluated using a combination of ecological, fisheries, and health-related criteria, including:
- Population status and vulnerability to fishing pressure
- Conservation status and legal protection
- Environmental impacts of fishing methods
- Effects on marine habitats and non-target species
- Human health considerations, including the accumulation of contaminants
- The role of the species in local fisheries and coastal communities
No single factor determines a recommendation. Instead, recommendations reflect an overall assessment of the best information currently available.
Invasive Species
Cyprus is located in one of the most rapidly changing marine regions of the Mediterranean. Over the past decades, numerous non-native species have established populations in local waters, some of which are now commonly caught and sold for consumption. Several invasive species are included in this guide. In some cases, consuming these species may help reduce pressure on native fish stocks while also contributing to the control of invasive species populations.
Understanding the Traffic-Light System
To make recommendations simple and accessible, SeafoodGuideCY uses a traffic-light system. Consumers are encouraged to consider factors such as origin, seasonality, size, and fishing method when this information is available.
Recommended (Green)
Species in this category are generally abundant, responsibly harvested, associated with lower environmental impacts, or considered suitable alternatives to more vulnerable species. This category may also include certain invasive species whose consumption can provide ecological benefits.
Buy with Caution (Yellow)
Species in this category may present concerns related to stock status, fishing methods, environmental impacts, or human health considerations.
Avoid (Red)
Species in this category are generally associated with significant sustainability concerns. They may be overfished, highly vulnerable to fishing pressure, legally protected, associated with damaging fishing practices, or known to accumulate elevated levels of contaminants.
A Living Resource
Marine ecosystems, fisheries, and scientific knowledge continue to change over time. As new information becomes available, recommendations may be revised accordingly. SeafoodGuideCY should therefore be viewed as a living resource that will continue to evolve alongside our understanding of the marine environment and the fisheries that depend on it.
