Map Puffer
Arothron mappa
Map Puffer (Arothron mappa) is a large tropical reef puffer with a pale body marked by dark, map-like reticulations and spots. It is common on lagoons and outer reef slopes across the Indo-Pacific, where it forages slowly on bottom invertebrates.
Pontos de identificação
- Cream to tan body covered in dark, irregular map-like lines and blotches
- Small dark spots often scattered over the body and fins
- Rounded puffer shape with a small beak-like mouth and no visible pelvic fins
Habitat
Tropical coral reefs, reef flats, lagoons, seaward reef slopes, and adjacent sandy or rubble bottoms; often seen near structure from shallow water to around 50 m.
Notas de isca
Rarely targeted by anglers; pieces of shrimp, crab, squid, or clam may take it incidentally on bottom rigs. Small reef jigs or cut bait can hook one by accident, but it is not a preferred sport species.
Comportamento
Slow-moving and wary, it cruises close to the bottom and picks at hard-shelled invertebrates such as mollusks, crustaceans, and echinoderms. It can inflate when threatened and is not a pursuit-feeding gamefish.
Cuidado
Contains tetrodotoxin and is not safe to eat; do not consume. Its skin and jaws can be dangerous to handle, and it may bite hard if grabbed. Check local rules before retaining any pufferfish.
Notas de pesca
If encountered, use a simple bottom rig near reef structure and fish bait near the seabed. Handle minimally and avoid attempting to land by hand because of inflation and bites; most anglers release it immediately.