Starry Pufferfish

Tahitian names

Hue mōrori

Interesting facts

This is the largest Polynesian tetraodon with the capacity to increase its size by inflating itself with water. The starry pufferfish is distinguishable with its elongated and globular body which is a light grey covered with black dots. It has a light colored belly and an imposing tail along with a single dorsal fin offset to the rear. Its small mouth has two dental plates located at the tip of its short snout along with two pairs of nostrils in a Y shape.

Generally solitary animals that live in sandy zones in the lagoon as well as the external slopes but with a preference for passes and channels.

sources & credits

Photo credit: John Hoover