Obscure pufferfish
📖 Overview
Obscure pufferfish (Takifugu obscurus) is a ray-finned fish of the family Tetraodontidae. It inhabits diadromous, migrating between freshwater and the sea waters in benthic environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 40 cm. With a trophic level of 3.4, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food, venomous.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15 - 19; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 13 - 16. Body covered with prickles. A large black blotch on side beneath pectoral fin and on base of dorsal fin .: short and / or deep.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Obscure pufferfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; freshwater; brackish; demersal; anadromous . Subtropical East China Sea and the South China Sea.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
⚠️ Venom Profile
- immediate intense pain
- swelling
- erythema
- occasional nausea and weakness
Analgesia; wound care; tetanus prophylaxis; severe cases may require monitoring for systemic effects.
References: Compiled from Bhide (2018), Halstead et al. (1988) and family-specific envenomation literature
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Obscure pufferfish is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Obscure pufferfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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