Fin's Fish Guide
The Sharpnose puffer (Canthigaster investigatoris) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The sharpnose puffer is a small tobyfish (Tetraodontidae) from reef water of the Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a stocky, scaleless body with a pointed snout and a brown to olive pattern of spots and lines; when threatened it inflates with water. With a strong beak-like jaw it gnaws at invertebrates, coral and algae. Its organs contain deadly tetrodotoxin; the fish must not be eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sharpnose puffer?
The Sharpnose 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 Sharpnose puffer live?
The Sharpnose puffer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia, Andaman Is.
How big does the Sharpnose puffer get?
The Sharpnose puffer grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Sharpnose puffer dangerous to humans?
The Sharpnose 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.
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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 Sharpnose puffer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sharpnose puffer is one of 12,519 species in the app.