Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted sharpnose puffer (Canthigaster punctatissima) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The spotted sharpnose puffer is a small sharpnose puffer of the family Tetraodontidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a stocky, brownish body densely studded with fine pale dots and a pointed snout. It hides in shaded, sheltered recesses of rocky reefs and boulder slopes. As an omnivore it nibbles sponges, algae, molluscs and small invertebrates. Like other puffers it can inflate itself, and its skin and organs can contain the poison tetrodotoxin; therefore do not eat this fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted sharpnose puffer?
The Spotted sharpnose puffer has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Densely scattered with fine pale spots; can inflate itself and contains tetrodotoxin.
Where does the Spotted sharpnose puffer live?
The Spotted sharpnose puffer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; shaded crevices of rocky reefs and boulder slopes.
How big does the Spotted sharpnose puffer get?
The Spotted sharpnose puffer grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Spotted sharpnose puffer dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted sharpnose puffer is harmless to humans. The skin, organs and possibly the flesh can contain the deadly poison tetrodotoxin; do not eat this fish. In case of poisoning (tingling, paralysis) there is no antidote: call emergency services immediately and support breathing.
Is the Spotted sharpnose puffer edible?
The Spotted sharpnose puffer is not usually eaten.
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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 Spotted sharpnose puffer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted sharpnose puffer is one of 12,519 species in the app.