Fin's Fish Guide
The Pufferfish (Canthigaster margaritata) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The pearl toby is a small sharpnose puffer (Tetraodontidae) from the Red Sea. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a pointed snout and a brown body studded with numerous light, pearly spots, to which the name refers. It is common in tide pools and shallow reef areas. The skin along the dorsal and ventral ridge can be inflated, for example during territorial displays among males. It feeds on various small invertebrates and algae. Like other puffers it contains the deadly toxin tetrodotoxin; do not eat this fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pufferfish?
The Pufferfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Pearly spots; can inflate itself during territorial display; contains tetrodotoxin.
Where does the Pufferfish live?
The Pufferfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Red Sea; tide pools and shallow reef areas.
How big does the Pufferfish get?
The Pufferfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Pufferfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pufferfish is harmless to humans. Do not eat this fish: the organs, skin and often the flesh contain the strong nerve toxin tetrodotoxin, which is not destroyed by cooking. If eaten and tingling, paralysis or breathing difficulty occur, call emergency services immediately.
Is the Pufferfish edible?
The Pufferfish 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 Canthigaster
More from the family Tetraodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Pufferfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pufferfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.