Fin's Fish Guide
The Bluespotted puffer (Arothron caeruleopunctatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 80 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Maldives, Mauritius, New Caledonia and others
Description
The bluespotted puffer is a large pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 80 cm and has a stocky, brown body densely scattered with numerous small blue spots, also around the eyes. When threatened it can inflate itself with water into a ball. As a reef-dweller it crushes molluscs, coral and crustaceans with a beak-like dentition. Flesh and organs contain the deadly poison tetrodotoxin and must never be eaten; touching is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bluespotted puffer?
The Bluespotted puffer has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Bluespotted puffer live?
The Bluespotted puffer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Maldives, Mauritius, New Caledonia and others
How big does the Bluespotted puffer get?
The Bluespotted puffer grows to a maximum of about 80 cm.
Is the Bluespotted puffer dangerous to humans?
The Bluespotted puffer is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. This fish contains the potent poison tetrodotoxin in its skin, gut and organs and must never be eaten; there is no antidote. If swallowed and symptoms such as tingling, paralysis or breathing difficulty appear: call emergency services immediately and support breathing. Touching is harmless; wash hands afterwards.
Is the Bluespotted puffer edible?
Yes, the Bluespotted puffer is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Arothron
More from the family Tetraodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Bluespotted puffer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bluespotted puffer is one of 12,519 species in the app.