What is white spotted pufferfish?

White spotted pufferfish (Arothron hispidus) is a species of marine fish found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a round body shape and white spots covering their dark brown or greyish-blue skin.

White spotted pufferfish are typically found in shallow waters such as coral reefs, lagoons, and bays. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates, algae, and other plant matter. They are also popular in the aquarium trade, although they require a specialized diet and environment.

One of the unique characteristics of white spotted pufferfish is their ability to inflate themselves by taking in water or air, making them appear much larger and more intimidating to potential predators. However, this process can be stressful for the fish and should not be encouraged in captive environments.

While white spotted pufferfish are not considered endangered, they are sometimes caught for food or for the aquarium trade, leading to concerns about overfishing. Conservation efforts are focused on promoting sustainable fishing practices and protecting their natural habitats.