Fin's Fish Guide
The Deepwater burrfish (Allomycterus pilatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Diodontidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The deepwater burrfish is a porcupinefish (Diodontidae) from coastal waters of southern Australia and New Zealand. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a stocky body set with short, stout spines and a beak-like dentition. When threatened it can inflate itself with water into a spiny ball. As a bottom-dweller it lives on sand and mud bottoms of deeper coastal waters and crushes molluscs, sea urchins and crustaceans. The fish is harmless to touch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Deepwater burrfish?
The Deepwater burrfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Deepwater burrfish live?
The Deepwater burrfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
How big does the Deepwater burrfish get?
The Deepwater burrfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Deepwater burrfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Deepwater burrfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Deepwater burrfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Deepwater burrfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Diodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Deepwater burrfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Deepwater burrfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.