Quick answer
Pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) are fish found across Asia. The fish that inflates into a spiky ball. Adults typically weigh roughly 1.2 kg (3 lb), reach speeds of Slow, maneuverable swimmer, and live Around 10 years for many species. They feed on carnivore / omnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, with some species in brackish and freshwater of Asia and Africa.
Key takeaway
Pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) are fish found across Asia. The fish that inflates into a spiky ball. Adults typically weigh roughly 1.2 kg (3 lb), reach speeds of Slow, maneuverable swimmer, and live Around 10 years for many species. They feed on carnivore / omnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, with some species in brackish and freshwater of Asia and Africa.
Pufferfish overview
Pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) is a fish listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight about 1.2 kg; lifespan around Around 10 years for many species.
Pufferfish ecology
Diet: Carnivore / omnivore. Habitat: Tropical and subtropical seas, some freshwater. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Pufferfish and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild pufferfish are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Pufferfish profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Pufferfish inhabit Tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, with some species in brackish and freshwater of Asia and Africa. Their preferred habitat includes tropical and subtropical seas, some freshwater, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persiste
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult pufferfish typically measure about 0.3 m in length and weigh roughly 1.2 kg (3 lb). They can sprint at Slow, maneuverable swimmer when hunting or escaping predators. Pufferfish are known for the fish that inflates into a spiky ball — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Pufferfish FAQs
What are key facts about pufferfish?
Pufferfish (Tetraodontidae) are fish found across Asia. The fish that inflates into a spiky ball. Adults typically weigh roughly 1.2 kg (3 lb), reach speeds of Slow, maneuverable swimmer, and live Around 10 years for many species. They feed on carnivore / omnivore and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, with some species in brackish and freshwater of Asia and Africa.
What is the scientific name of the pufferfish?
Tetraodontidae — used in research and conservation listings for pufferfish.
What do pufferfish eat?
Pufferfish are described as carnivores / omnivores, with seasonal and regional variation in Tropical and subtropical seas, some freshwater.
Where do pufferfish live?
They are associated with Tropical and subtropical seas, some freshwater. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of pufferfish?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.