How to Identify White Spot Puffer

To identify White Spot Puffer (Tetraodon biocellatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

rounded

Coloration

Dorsal surface is typically dark brown to olive green, adorned with distinctive yellow to orange ocellated spots (often resembling a 'figure 8' pattern, hence the common name) outlined in black. The ventral surface is white to pale yellow. Fins are generally translucent with some darker markings. The eyes are large and independently movable.

Scale type

none

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Two prominent ocellated spots on the dorsal surface, often merging to form a 'figure 8' pattern., Small, spiny dermal denticles covering the body, which are erected when the fish inflates., Absence of pelvic fins., Beak-like mouth with four fused teeth (two upper, two lower).

Dorsal fin

Single, small, and set far back on the body, typically with 9-12 soft rays.

Tail fin

Rounded to truncate, providing propulsion.

Pectoral fin

Fan-shaped, used for maneuvering and hovering, typically with 15-19 rays.

Distinctive fins

No pelvic fins. The dorsal and anal fins are positioned symmetrically opposite each other, near the caudal peduncle.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Pattern

   Look for the characteristic 'figure 8' or two distinct ocellated spots on the dorsal side, which are yellow/orange with black outlines. This is the most reliable visual identifier.

2. 2

   Size

   Adults typically reach a maximum size of 6-8 cm (2.5-3 inches), making them one of the smaller brackish water puffers.

3. 3

   Habitat Preference

   If observed in the wild, its presence in brackish water environments (estuaries, mangroves) is a strong indicator.

4. 4

   Eye Movement

   Like many pufferfish, T. biocellatus has independently moving eyes, which can aid in identification.

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