Fin's Fish Guide
The Compressed toby (Canthigaster compressa) is a brackish-water fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The fingerprint toby is a sharpnose pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) from the western Pacific. The species is small and has a laterally compressed body with a pointed snout and a pattern of fine lines and spots resembling a fingerprint. It inhabits sandy parts of shallow lagoons and channels. With its beak-like jaws it takes small invertebrates and algae. The skin and organs contain the highly toxic tetrodotoxin; consumption can be fatal.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Compressed toby?
The Compressed toby has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Fingerprint-like line pattern and a pointed snout; contains deadly tetrodotoxin.
Where does the Compressed toby live?
The Compressed toby lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific; sandy parts of shallow lagoons and channels.
How big does the Compressed toby get?
The Compressed toby grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Compressed toby dangerous to humans?
No, the Compressed toby is harmless to humans. Do not eat: the organs and skin 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 Compressed toby edible?
The Compressed toby is not usually eaten.
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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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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Compressed toby is one of 12,519 species in the app.