Caribbean Sharpnose Puffer

Caribbean Sharpnose Puffer (Canthigaster rostrata)

The Caribbean sharpnose puffer is a small but fascinating species of puffer fish found from the waters off South Carolina to the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. It predominantly inhabits shallow coral reef ecosystems but can also be found in seagrass beds. Despite its small size, this species is highly territorial and vigorously defends its domain. The Caribbean sharpnose puffer reaches a maximum length of about 4.5 inches. While it may be small compared to some other omnivorous fish, it is a robust defender of its territory. This puffer fish is an omnivore, feeding on a diverse range of invertebrates, such as shrimp and worms, as well as algae and seagrass. Its varied diet helps it thrive in its habitat. The Caribbean sharpnose puffer can live up to 10 years. Females generally have a longer lifespan than males, as males expend significant energy defending their territory. To protect itself from predators, the Caribbean sharpnose puffer employs two main strategies: secreting toxins and inflating its body.