Masked puffer
StatusLC
Status systemIUCN3.1
TaxonArothron diadematus
Authority(Rüppell, 1829)

The masked puffer (Arothron diadematus) is a pufferfish in the family Tetraodontidae.

Distribution

Red Sea only.

Description

Maximum length 30 cm, olive-green/grey with a black mask over the eyes and pectoral fins, mouth has a black border.[1] Usually solitary but schools during mating period. Some authors believe this to be a variation of the species Arothron nigropunctatus.[2]

Habitat

Associated with coral reefs, from surface to 20m depth.[1]

References

  1. ^ Siliotti, A. (2002) fishes of the red sea Verona, Geodia ISBN 88-87177-42-2
  2. ^