Pacific crown toby – Canthigaster axiologus

The Banded Sharpnose Pufferfish, also known as Barred Toadfish, Crowned Puffer, Four-barred Toby, Pacific Crown Toby, Pacific Crowned Toby, Sharpnosed Pufferfish, Striped Toby, Three-barred Puffer, and Three-barred Toby, is a species of pufferfish scientifically classified as Canthigaster axiologus. This small, brightly colored fish is a captivating inhabitant of the Indo-Pacific region.

Description & Characteristics

The Canthigaster axiologus is characterized by its distinctive black and white banding pattern. Its body is generally oval-shaped, with a sharp snout and small, upturned mouth. It can reach a maximum size of 10.1 cm. This pufferfish has the ability to inflate its body with water, making it appear larger and more intimidating to potential predators.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Canthigaster axiologus is typically found in coastal waters, often inhabiting rocky reefs and coral communities. Its depth range extends from 10 to 80 meters, making it a resident of both shallow and deeper environments. These fish are commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific, including the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the western Pacific Ocean. This distribution makes the Canthigaster axiologus a prevalent presence in the following marine zones: the neritic zone (the coastal region), the epipelagic zone (the sunlit surface layer), and the mesopelagic zone (the twilight zone).

Taxonomy

The species Canthigaster axiologus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Tetraodontiformes, and Family: Tetraodontidae. This classification places it within a group of fish known for their distinctive features, including their ability to inflate their bodies and their often-toxic nature. Within this group, the Canthigaster axiologus is a member of the genus Canthigaster, which contains several other species of pufferfish.

Feeding

The Canthigaster axiologus is a predatory fish, feeding primarily on a variety of invertebrates. Its diet consists of clams, crustaceans, sea squirts, sea urchins, snails, sponges, starfish, worms, and zoobenthos. This diverse diet highlights its ability to adapt to a range of food sources within its habitat.