Fin's Fish Guide
The Lantern toby (Canthigaster epilampra) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Oceania: Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cook Is., French Polynesia, Guam and others
Description
The Lantern toby is a sharpnose puffer (Tetraodontidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a stocky body with a pointed snout. The brownish body is scattered with numerous small blue spots. With a beak-like dentition it crushes coral, molluscs and crustaceans. Flesh and organs contain the deadly poison tetrodotoxin and must never be eaten; touching is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lantern toby?
The Lantern toby has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Lantern toby live?
The Lantern toby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Cook Is., French Polynesia, Guam and others
How big does the Lantern toby get?
The Lantern toby grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Lantern toby dangerous to humans?
The Lantern toby 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
Same genus Canthigaster
More from the family Tetraodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Lantern toby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lantern toby is one of 12,519 species in the app.