The Fresh water puffer fish (Tetraodon mbu) is a brackish-water fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 67 cm.
Description
The giant freshwater pufferfish (Tetraodon mbu) is the largest freshwater puffer of the family Tetraodontidae and occurs in the Congo basin and Lake Tanganyika in Africa. The species has a stocky, disc-shaped body with a spectacular maze- or mosaic pattern in brown and yellow and reaches about 67 cm. It inhabits large rivers and lakes and also occurs in estuaries. With its powerful incisor teeth it crushes snails, mussels and crustaceans. Like other puffers it can inflate, and its tissue contains the potent poison tetrodotoxin; the species is therefore not eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fresh water puffer fish?
The Fresh water puffer fish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the Fresh water puffer fish live?
The Fresh water puffer fish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Fresh water puffer fish get?
The Fresh water puffer fish grows to a maximum of about 67 cm.
Is the Fresh water puffer fish dangerous to humans?
The Fresh water puffer fish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
Is the Fresh water puffer fish edible?
The Fresh water puffer fish is not usually eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tetraodon
More from the family Tetraodontidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.