Since 1869, 120 fish species have crossed the Suez Canal—three more may follow

Since the Suez Canal opened in 1869, over 120 fish species have migrated from the Red Sea into the Mediterranean.

Researchers at Tel Aviv University created a statistical model to predict future invasive fish species.

Top candidate species predicted to cross next include the stellate pufferfish (Arothron stellatus), the cinnabar goatfish (Parupeneus heptacantha), and the yellowspotted trevally (Turrum fulvoguttatum).

The model uses data from stereoscopic baited remote underwater video systems (stereo-BRUVs) deployed in the Gulf of Eilat and along the Mediterranean coast of Israel.

The model aims to assist environmental monitoring and early detection of invasive species as Mediterranean waters warm.