Fin's Fish Guide
The Clown toado (Canthigaster callisterna) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, Kermadec Is., Norfolk I., Lord Howe I.
Description
The Clown toado is a sharpnose puffer (Tetraodontidae) from the southwest Pacific, around Australia and New Zealand. The species grows to about 23 cm and has a stocky body with a pointed snout. The body bears conspicuous blue lines and orange spots. With a beak-like dentition it crushes coral, molluscs and crustaceans. Flesh and organs contain the deadly poison tetrodotoxin and must never be eaten; touching is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Clown toado?
The Clown toado has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly yellow-gold. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Clown toado live?
The Clown toado lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, Kermadec Is., Norfolk I., Lord Howe I.
How big does the Clown toado get?
The Clown toado grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Clown toado dangerous to humans?
The Clown toado 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.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Clown toado?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Clown toado is one of 12,519 species in the app.