Fin's Fish Guide
The Hardenberg's burrfish (Cyclichthys hardenbergi) is a saltwater fish of the family Diodontidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
Hardenberg's burrfish is a porcupinefish (Diodontidae) from shallow coastal and reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a stocky, yellow-brown body set with short, fixed spines; when threatened it inflates with water into a spiny ball. With a strong, beak-like jaw it crushes shellfish, crabs and sea urchins. Its skin and organs contain toxic tetrodotoxin; the fish must not be eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hardenberg's burrfish?
The Hardenberg's burrfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Hardenberg's burrfish live?
The Hardenberg's burrfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Papua New Guinea
How big does the Hardenberg's burrfish get?
The Hardenberg's burrfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Hardenberg's burrfish dangerous to humans?
The Hardenberg's burrfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. This fish carries the powerful nerve poison tetrodotoxin in its skin and organs, with no antidote; do not eat it. After ingestion tingling, numbness, muscle weakness and breathing problems can develop within an hour. Call emergency services at once; prompt medical monitoring and breathing support are life-saving.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Hardenberg's burrfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hardenberg's burrfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cyclichthys
More from the family Diodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Hardenberg's burrfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hardenberg's burrfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.