Fin's Fish Guide
The Marbled puffer (Sphoeroides kendalli) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The Marbled puffer is a pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) from shallow coastal and estuarine water of the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body with a spotted back and large, mobile eyes; when threatened it inflates with water into a ball. With a strong, beak-like jaw it crushes shellfish, crabs and sea urchins. Its organs contain deadly tetrodotoxin; the fish must not be eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Marbled puffer?
The Marbled puffer has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Marbled puffer live?
The Marbled puffer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Peru
How big does the Marbled puffer get?
The Marbled puffer grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Marbled puffer dangerous to humans?
The Marbled puffer is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. This fish contains tetrodotoxin, a powerful nerve poison 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.
Is the Marbled puffer edible?
Yes, the Marbled puffer is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sphoeroides
More from the family Tetraodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Marbled puffer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marbled puffer is one of 12,519 species in the app.