Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 110 cm.
Description
The silver-cheeked toadfish is a large pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a streamlined body with a silvery cheek and back and can inflate when threatened. It inhabits reefs and sandy bottoms. With its strong beak-like jaws it cracks molluscs, crustaceans and small fishes. Via the Suez Canal it has invaded the Mediterranean, where it is a harmful invasive species. The skin and organs contain the highly toxic tetrodotoxin; consumption can be fatal.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant toadfish?
The Giant toadfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Lessepsian invasive pufferfish in the Mediterranean Sea; contains deadly tetrodotoxin.
Where does the Giant toadfish live?
The Giant toadfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; reefs and sandy bottoms.
How big does the Giant toadfish get?
The Giant toadfish grows to a maximum of about 110 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Giant toadfish dangerous to humans?
The Giant toadfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. 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 Giant toadfish edible?
The Giant toadfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Giant toadfish and live in the same waters.
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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 Giant toadfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant toadfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.