Fin's Fish Guide
The Diamondback puffer (Lagocephalus guentheri) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 37 cm.
Description
The Diamondback puffer is a pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 37 cm and has a streamlined, silver-grey body with a white belly and a beak-like dentition. When threatened it can inflate itself with water. The back bears a dark, diamond-shaped pattern. Flesh and organs contain the deadly poison tetrodotoxin and must never be eaten; touching is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Diamondback puffer?
The Diamondback puffer has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Diamondback puffer live?
The Diamondback puffer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, India, Indonesia, Iran and others
How big does the Diamondback puffer get?
The Diamondback puffer grows to a maximum of about 37 cm.
Is the Diamondback puffer dangerous to humans?
The Diamondback 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.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Diamondback puffer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Diamondback puffer is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lagocephalus
More from the family Tetraodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Diamondback puffer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Diamondback puffer is one of 12,519 species in the app.