Black-Spotted Pufferfish

The Black-Spotted Pufferfish (Arothron nigropunctatus) is a distinctive species inhabiting the tropical and sub-tropical seas of the Indo-Pacific region. Found at varying depths from three to 25 meters, they are renowned for their unique defense mechanism: inflating their bodies when threatened by swallowing surrounding seawater.

Their diet is diverse, consisting of benthic invertebrates, sponges, algae, coral tips, crustaceans, and mollusks, which they crush using a fused beak-like structure. Additionally, these pufferfish harbor a toxin, tetrodotoxin, in their skin, viscera, and reproductive glands, sourced from bacteria in their food, adding to their defense against predators.

Visually, the Black-Spotted Pufferfish is easily identifiable. It has a grey to brown upper body and a white to yellow underside, adorned with irregular black spots and a pale band across the snout.

Divers interested in observing these pufferfish can visit several prominent locations across the Indo-Pacific region. In Thailand, key diving spots include the Similan Islands and Phuket. The Maldives offer sightings in Ari Atoll and Addu Atoll. Indonesia's notable locations are Komodo and Raja Ampat. For those visiting Myanmar, the Mergui Archipelago is a prime spot. In Egypt, divers can explore The Brothers and Elphinstone. These major sites are known for their vibrant marine life and provide ample opportunities to encounter the Black-Spotted Pufferfish in its natural habitat.