Fin's Fish Guide
The Golden puffer (Auriglobus modestus) is a freshwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The golden puffer is a pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) from fresh water of Southeast Asia, including the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a streamlined, glossy gold-green body with a white belly and a beak-like dentition. Unlike many puffers it is a fast, schooling open-water hunter of small fish and invertebrates. Flesh and organs contain the deadly poison tetrodotoxin and must never be eaten; touching is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Golden puffer?
The Golden puffer has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly yellow-gold. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Golden puffer live?
The Golden puffer lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Golden puffer get?
The Golden puffer grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Golden puffer dangerous to humans?
The Golden 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
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 Golden puffer is one of 12,519 species in the app.