How to Identify Green Spotted Puffer

To identify Green Spotted Puffer (Dichotomyctere nigroviridis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

rounded

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically bright green with irregular, dark (black to dark brown) spots. The ventral surface is white to yellowish. The intensity of green and spot patterns can vary between individuals and with age.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Ability to inflate body into a spherical shape when threatened., Beak-like mouth with fused teeth (dental plate)., Absence of pelvic fins., Small, spiny dermal denticles (not true scales) covering the body, which become erect when inflated.

Dorsal fin

Single, small, and set far back on the body, typically with 10-12 soft rays.

Tail fin

Rounded to truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Well-developed, fan-like pectoral fins used for precise maneuvering, typically with 16-19 soft rays.

Distinctive fins

No pelvic fins. Anal fin is small and located directly below the dorsal fin, typically with 8-10 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Spot Pattern

   Look for the characteristic bright green dorsal coloration with distinct, irregular black spots. The belly is typically white or yellowish.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   Robust, somewhat rounded body that can inflate significantly when stressed or threatened.

3. 3

   Mouth

   Observe the small, beak-like mouth with fused teeth, characteristic of pufferfish.

4. 4

   Fin Arrangement

   Note the absence of pelvic fins and the small, posteriorly placed dorsal and anal fins.

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