The Pygmy puffer (Sphoeroides trichocephalus) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetraodontidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The roughhead puffer is a puffer (Tetraodontidae) from the eastern Pacific Ocean. The species has a round, pear-shaped body and can inflate itself with water into a ball when threatened. It lives bottom-bound on soft bottoms of coastal waters. With its fused beak-like tooth plates it cracks shellfish, snails and crustaceans. Like many puffers it can contain the toxic tetrodotoxin; do not eat this fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pygmy puffer?
The Pygmy puffer has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Pygmy puffer live?
The Pygmy puffer lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Pygmy puffer get?
The Pygmy puffer grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Pygmy puffer dangerous to humans?
No, the Pygmy puffer is harmless to humans.
Is the Pygmy puffer edible?
The Pygmy puffer is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sphoeroides
More from the family Tetraodontidae
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