The Spotback toby (Canthigaster supramacula) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The Spotback toby is a small sharpnose puffer or toby (Tetraodontidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body with a pointed snout and a brown to olive pattern of spots and lines; when threatened it inflates with water. With a strong beak-like jaw it gnaws at invertebrates, coral and algae. Its organs contain deadly tetrodotoxin; the fish must not be eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotback toby?
The Spotback toby has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Spotback toby live?
The Spotback toby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Spotback toby get?
The Spotback toby grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Spotback toby dangerous to humans?
The Spotback toby is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Canthigaster
More from the family Tetraodontidae
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