Fin's Fish Guide
The Redeye puffer (Carinotetraodon lorteti) is a freshwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The redeye puffer is a small freshwater pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) from Southeast Asia, including the Mekong basin. The species grows to about 6 cm; males have red eyes and can raise a belly keel, while females are browner and marbled. With a beak-like dentition it crushes snails and small invertebrates. Flesh and organs contain the deadly poison tetrodotoxin and must never be eaten; touching is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redeye puffer?
The Redeye puffer has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Redeye puffer live?
The Redeye puffer lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Redeye puffer get?
The Redeye puffer grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Redeye puffer dangerous to humans?
The Redeye puffer 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.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Redeye puffer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redeye puffer is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Carinotetraodon
More from the family Tetraodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Redeye puffer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redeye puffer is one of 12,519 species in the app.