Longnose Puffer

Family: Pufferfishes (Tetraodontidae)
Size: Up to 50 cm (20 in) | Common: 25 cm
Depth: 3 – 50m (10 – 165ft)

Distribution: Widespread Indo-Pacific and Eastern Tropical Pacific (Baja California down to Panama, including Malpelo and the Galapagos).

Identification: A robust, medium-sized pufferfish known for its distinct markings.

• The Pectoral Spot: The easiest giveaway is the distinct, large black blotch located right at the base of the pectoral fin, often bordered by a pale white or blue crescent.
• Stars and Stripes: The greenish-brown body is heavily covered in small, bright white or pale blue spots. On adult specimens, the belly features continuous horizontal white stripes.
• The Orange Eye: They have large, highly mobile eyes that frequently feature a bright orange or yellow ring around the iris.

Behavior: A solitary and slow-moving observer of the reef.

• Helicopter Swimming: Lacking pelvic fins, they use their pectoral, dorsal, and anal fins in a synchronized rowing motion to hover and navigate complex rocky crevices with incredible precision.
• Toxic Defense: If heavily stressed or attacked, they will rapidly swallow water to inflate their elastic stomachs into a large, rigid ball. Their tissues also contain tetrodotoxin, making them deadly to consume.