Fin's Fish Guide
The Smooth blaasop (Lagocephalus inermis) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Asia: Australia, Myanmar, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, India and others
Description
The Smooth blaasop is a pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) from the Indo-West Pacific and eastern Atlantic. The species grows to about 90 cm and has a streamlined, silver-grey body with a white belly and a beak-like dentition. When threatened it can inflate itself with water. It is one of the largest puffers, with a smooth, almost spineless skin. Flesh and organs contain the deadly poison tetrodotoxin and must never be eaten; touching is harmless.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Smooth blaasop?
The Smooth blaasop has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Smooth blaasop live?
The Smooth blaasop lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, Myanmar, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, India and others
How big does the Smooth blaasop get?
The Smooth blaasop grows to a maximum of about 90 cm.
Is the Smooth blaasop dangerous to humans?
The Smooth blaasop 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 Lagocephalus
More from the family Tetraodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Smooth blaasop?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Smooth blaasop is one of 12,519 species in the app.