Fin's Fish Guide
The Hardys toadfish (Contusus brevicaudus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The prickly toadfish is a puffer (Tetraodontidae) from the temperate coastal waters of Australia. The species has a stocky, pear-shaped body with a short tail and a skin covered with small spinelets. It is usually observed in estuaries to about 20 m deep and is nocturnal. As an omnivore it nibbles on small benthic invertebrates. Like other puffers it can inflate itself with water and its tissue contains the deadly poison tetrodotoxin; never eat this fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hardys toadfish?
The Hardys toadfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Short tail and spiny skin; inflates itself and contains the deadly poison tetrodotoxin.
Where does the Hardys toadfish live?
The Hardys toadfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate coastal waters of Australia; estuaries down to ~20 m.
How big does the Hardys toadfish get?
The Hardys toadfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Hardys toadfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Hardys toadfish is harmless to humans. The flesh, organs and skin can contain the deadly poison tetrodotoxin; never eat this fish. There is no antidote - if ingested, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Is the Hardys toadfish edible?
The Hardys toadfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Contusus
More from the family Tetraodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Hardys toadfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hardys toadfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.