Fin's Fish Guide
The Daisy midshipman (Porichthys margaritatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Batrachoididae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The Pacific midshipman is a toadfish of the family Batrachoididae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 17 cm and has a stocky body with a broad head and rows of pearly light-producing organs (photophores) along the underside, hence the name. It inhabits offshore soft bottoms and migrates to shallow reef areas in late spring to spawn, where the male guards the eggs and makes humming sounds with the swim bladder. As a bottom hunter it feeds on small fishes and crustaceans. Toadfishes have venomous spines on the gill covers and first dorsal fin; a sting gives a painful wound, so careful handling is advised.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Daisy midshipman?
The Daisy midshipman has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Rows of pearly photophores on the belly; venomous spines, and the male makes humming spawning sounds.
Where does the Daisy midshipman live?
The Daisy midshipman lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Eastern Pacific; offshore soft bottoms, spawns in shallow reef areas.
How big does the Daisy midshipman get?
The Daisy midshipman grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Daisy midshipman dangerous to humans?
No, the Daisy midshipman is harmless to humans. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Daisy midshipman edible?
The Daisy midshipman is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Porichthys
More from the family Batrachoididae
Want the complete picture on the Daisy midshipman?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Daisy midshipman is one of 12,519 species in the app.