Fin's Fish Guide
The Cano toadfish (Thalassophryne maculosa) is a saltwater fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The cano toadfish is a venomous toadfish from the southern Caribbean Sea, off the coast of northern South America. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a stocky, frog-like body with a large, broad head and a mottled camouflage. Remarkable and dangerous are the hollow, venom-filled spines in the first dorsal fin and on the gill cover, with which it can inflict an intensely painful wound like a hypodermic needle. As an ambush hunter it lies half-buried on soft bottoms and snaps at small fish and crustaceans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cano toadfish?
The Cano toadfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Hollow hypodermic-needle-like venomous spines in the dorsal fin and operculum; camouflaged ambush predator
Where does the Cano toadfish live?
The Cano toadfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Southern Caribbean Sea
How big does the Cano toadfish get?
The Cano toadfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Cano toadfish dangerous to humans?
The Cano toadfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by the spines: immerse the affected part in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, and seek medical help for severe pain or swelling.
Is the Cano toadfish edible?
The Cano toadfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Cano toadfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cano toadfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thalassophryne
More from the family Batrachoididae
Want the complete picture on the Cano toadfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cano toadfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.