Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted toby (Canthigaster punctata) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Spotted toby is a sharpnose puffer (Tetraodontidae) from shallow reef water of the western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, laterally compressed body with a pointed snout, large mobile eyes and a fine network or spotted pattern; when threatened it inflates with water. With a strong, beak-like jaw it nibbles coral, sponges, weed and small invertebrates. Its tissues contain deadly tetrodotoxin; the fish must not be eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted toby?
The Spotted toby 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 Spotted toby live?
The Spotted toby lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Spotted toby get?
The Spotted toby grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Spotted toby dangerous to humans?
The Spotted toby 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.
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 Spotted toby?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted toby is one of 12,519 species in the app.