The Yellowfin puffer (Takifugu xanthopterus) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The yellowfin puffer is a pufferfish from the northwest Pacific, off Japan, Korea and China. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a light-blue to greyish body with dark wavy lines and yellow fins; when threatened it can inflate into a ball. Like other pufferfishes its organs contain the very powerful toxin tetrodotoxin; eaten when wrongly prepared it can be deadly. It is carefully prepared as fugu. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellowfin puffer?
The Yellowfin puffer has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a flame-patterned pattern.
Where does the Yellowfin puffer live?
The Yellowfin puffer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Yellowfin puffer get?
The Yellowfin puffer grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Yellowfin puffer dangerous to humans?
The Yellowfin puffer is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
Is the Yellowfin puffer edible?
Yes, the Yellowfin puffer is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Takifugu
More from the family Tetraodontidae
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