The Cochinchina puffer (Pao cochinchinensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The Cochinchina puffer is a freshwater pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) from the Mekong basin and adjacent rivers in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, scaleless, yellow-brown body with dark spots and large, mobile eyes; when threatened it inflates with water. With a strong beak-like jaw it crushes snails, crustaceans and insect larvae. Its organs contain deadly tetrodotoxin; the fish must not be eaten.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cochinchina puffer?
The Cochinchina puffer has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Cochinchina puffer live?
The Cochinchina puffer lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Cochinchina puffer get?
The Cochinchina puffer grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Cochinchina puffer dangerous to humans?
The Cochinchina puffer is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pao
More from the family Tetraodontidae
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