How to Identify Evileye Puffer

To identify Evileye Puffer (Amblyrhynchotes honckenii), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

rounded

Coloration

Dorsal surface typically greenish-brown to grey, often with numerous small, dark spots. The ventral surface is white. A distinctive dark band or 'ring' often encircles the base of the pectoral fins, extending dorsally. The eyes are prominent and often appear dark, contributing to the 'evileye' moniker.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Robust, inflatable body, Small, spiny dermal denticles (prickles) covering most of the body, particularly prominent on the dorsal and lateral surfaces when inflated, Absence of pelvic fins, Four strong, fused teeth forming a beak-like structure, Prominent, dark eyes, Often a dark ring or band around the pectoral fin base

Dorsal fin

Single, small, and rounded dorsal fin, typically located far back on the body, opposite the anal fin. Contains 9-11 soft rays.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly rounded caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Small, rounded pectoral fins, typically with 15-18 rays.

Distinctive fins

No pelvic fins. Anal fin is small and rounded, similar in shape and position to the dorsal fin, with 8-10 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Spines

   Look for a robust, rounded body that can inflate. The skin is covered in small, erectile spines (dermal denticles) that are more noticeable when the fish is stressed or inflated.

2. 2

   Coloration and Markings

   Observe the greenish-brown to grey dorsal coloration with numerous small dark spots. The white belly is a key feature. Crucially, look for a dark band or 'ring' around the base of the pectoral fins, which is a strong identifying mark for this species.

3. 3

   Eyes

   The eyes are large and often appear dark, giving rise to the 'Evileye' common name.

4. 4

   Fin Configuration

   Note the absence of pelvic fins and the small, rounded dorsal and anal fins positioned far back on the body.

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