Fin's Fish Guide
The Balloonfish (Dicotylichthys punctulatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Diodontidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The three-barred porcupinefish is a porcupinefish (Diodontidae) from the waters around Australia. The species has a stocky body covered with spines and can inflate into a spiny ball when threatened. It lives on estuarine, coastal and seaward reefs to about fifty metres depth and is nocturnal and solitary. With its strong beak-like jaws it cracks hard-shelled prey such as molluscs and crustaceans. The organs and skin may contain the toxic tetrodotoxin; consumption can be dangerous.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Balloonfish?
The Balloonfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Spiny body that inflates into a ball; the organs can contain tetrodotoxin.
Where does the Balloonfish live?
The Balloonfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Around Australia; estuarine, coastal and seaward reefs to ~50 m.
How big does the Balloonfish get?
The Balloonfish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Balloonfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Balloonfish is harmless to humans. Do not eat: the organs and skin may contain the highly toxic tetrodotoxin, which is life-threatening if ingested. There is no antidote; in case of poisoning seek immediate medical help.
Is the Balloonfish edible?
The Balloonfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Diodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Balloonfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Balloonfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.