How to Identify Spotfin Burrfish

To identify Spotfin Burrfish (Chilomycterus reticulatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

rounded

Coloration

Dorsal and lateral surfaces are typically light brown to yellowish-tan, covered with numerous small, dark brown to black spots. The ventral surface is white. Fins are generally translucent with dark spots on the rays, particularly noticeable on the dorsal and anal fins, giving rise to the 'spotfin' common name.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Body covered in numerous short, fixed, immovable spines (not erectile like Diodon species)., Large, prominent eyes., Strong, beak-like dental plate formed by fused teeth., Ability to inflate its body into a spherical shape when threatened., Dark spots on the fins, especially the dorsal and anal fins.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, typically with 12-14 soft rays, located far back on the body, opposite the anal fin.

Tail fin

Rounded caudal fin, typically with 10 soft rays.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins, typically with 19-22 soft rays, used for propulsion and maneuvering.

Distinctive fins

No pelvic fins. Dorsal and anal fins are relatively small and set far posterior, contributing to their maneuverability rather than speed.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Spines

   The most distinguishing feature is the body covered in short, rigid, immovable spines. This differentiates it from species in the genus Diodon, which have longer, erectile spines.

2. 2

   Coloration and Spots

   Its light brown to yellowish body with numerous small, dark spots, particularly on the fins, is a key identifier. The ventral side is uniformly white.

3. 3

   Fin Placement

   The dorsal and anal fins are small and located far back on the body, directly opposite each other.

4. 4

   Mouth

   Possesses a strong, beak-like mouth with fused teeth, characteristic of porcupinefishes, adapted for crushing hard-shelled prey.

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