Yellowspotted puffer
📖 Overview
Yellowspotted puffer (Torquigener flavimaculosus) is a ray-finned fish of the family Tetraodontidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in reef-associated environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 16 cm. It occurs at depths between 3 and 57 metres. With a trophic level of 3.3, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Venomous.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal soft rays: 7 - 8. This species is distinguished by the following characters: with spinules between nasal organs and dorsal-fin origin; dorsal surface of head and body with many small brownish dots, forming rosettes enclosing larger white spots; areas of small yellowish brown spots on the cheek may form broad vertical bands, separated by irregular narrow white bands; belly white; fins pale .Cross section: angular.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Yellowspotted puffer is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 3 - 57 m . Tropical Indian Ocean: northern Red Sea and Kenya; a recent emigrant to the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal.
🌿 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
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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