Margaritata Puffer – Canthigaster margaritata

, Margaritata Puffer, Canthigaster margaritata
Size: 11.5 cm
Depth: 0 - 10 m
Water Type: Marine
Toxicity: Toxic hazard unknown
Red List Status: Least concern (LC)
Temperature: 71.6 °F - 80.6 °F (22°C - 27°C)

The Margaritata Puffer (Canthigaster margaritata) is a small, colorful fish found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This species is characterized by its distinctive markings and unique feeding habits.

Description & Characteristics

The Margaritata Puffer (Canthigaster margaritata) is a relatively small fish, reaching a maximum size of 11.5 cm. It is easily recognized by its vibrant color pattern, which includes a mix of orange, yellow, and white. These colors are arranged in a distinctive pattern of spots and stripes that help camouflage the fish among the coral reefs it calls home. Like other pufferfish, the Margaritata Puffer (Canthigaster margaritata) possesses the ability to inflate its body with water when threatened, making it appear much larger and more formidable to potential predators.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Margaritata Puffer (Canthigaster margaritata) prefers to inhabit shallow, near-shore environments. It is often found in the subtidal, sublittoral, and infralittoral zones, which are the areas of the ocean floor that are located below the low tide mark but above the depth of the continental shelf. The Margaritata Puffer (Canthigaster margaritata) can be found at depths ranging from 0.0 to 10.0 meters. This species is commonly observed in the neritic zone, which encompasses the waters that extend from the coastline to the edge of the continental shelf.

Taxonomy

The species Canthigaster margaritata belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Tetraodontiformes, and Family: Tetraodontidae. This classification places it among the diverse group of ray-finned fishes, specifically within the order of pufferfishes, filefishes, and triggerfishes. The Tetraodontidae family encompasses a wide range of species, many of which are known for their distinctive physical characteristics, including the ability to inflate their bodies with water.

Feeding

The Margaritata Puffer (Canthigaster margaritata) is a food specialist, primarily relying on a diet of Nori-Algae and sea urchins. Its specialized feeding habits are an adaptation to its specific environment and contribute to its role in the marine ecosystem.

Associated Species

Image References

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