Fauna
Species · GBIF taxon 2406494

Striped Burrfish

Chilomycterus schoepfii

Also known as Spiny Puffer, Burrfish, Striped Dogfish

Striped burrfishes feature yellowish-tan bodies adorned with bold brown stripes and dark spots. Unlike true porcupinefishes that erect hinged spines when threatened, burrfishes possess sharp, rigid spines that remain upright at all times. They cruise seagrass beds and rocky reefs, using powerful fused jaws to crush hermit crabs, snails, and hard-shelled invertebrates.

MarineReef DwellerSpiny
Striped Burrfish reference1 / 7
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Hermit Crabs
  • Mussels
  • Sea Urchins
Predators
  • Sharks
  • Large Groupers
  • Snappers
ThreatsSeagrass habitat loss, accidental net entanglement, aquarium collection
HabitatsCoastal seagrass beds, bays, estuaries, and coral or rocky reefs
Life span10–15 years
Classification
  1. OrderTetraodontiformes
  2. FamilyDiodontidae
  3. GenusChilomycterus
  4. SpeciesChilomycterus schoepfii
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Possesses sharp fixed spines, a crushing bite, and potentially toxic flesh if ingested; do not handle.
Why it is dangerous
Tissues may contain deadly tetrodotoxin if ingested, and its powerful beak can crush fingers.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for dark wavy stripes over a yellow-brown body with prominent, permanently erect triangular spines.
What to do
Observe without touching or netting; allow the fish to swim freely without cornering it.
Responsible observation
  • Observe from above: Snorkelers often spot them floating near seagrass blades or dock pilings.
  • Maintain distance: Avoid touching or cornering them to prevent triggering stressful defense responses.
  • Keep hands clear: Never attempt to hold one, as its sharp spines and fused teeth can cause injury.
Related species
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