Striped Burrfish
Chilomycterus schoepfii
Striped Burrfish is a small Atlantic porcupinefish-like puffer with short stout spines and bold dark vertical striping. It is a slow, bottom-associated species that inflates when threatened and is seldom targeted by anglers.
Identification points
- Bold dark vertical stripes on the body
- Short, rigid spines that stand out when inflated
- Rounded puffer-like body with a blunt snout and small mouth
Habitat
Shallow coastal waters over sandy, seagrass, and rubble bottoms; often near reefs, bays, and estuaries, typically staying close to the substrate.
Bait notes
Not a common gamefish. If caught incidentally, it may take small pieces of shrimp, squid, clam, or cut bait on light tackle.
Behavior
Feeds slowly on small benthic invertebrates such as mollusks and crustaceans, using beak-like teeth to crush prey. It is sluggish, wary, and inflates when handled or threatened.
Caution
Inflates defensively and has short sharp spines that can puncture skin; avoid handling. Not a target species in many areas and local rules may restrict retention where puffers are regulated.
Fishing notes
Fish near bottom with very small hooks and light leader; use short casts or gentle drops around shallow structure. Handle carefully to avoid triggering inflation and injury from the spines.