scubaseason

Map pufferfish

Arothron mappa

Sighting evidence at Cap la Houssaye Reunion, Réunion Island

The map pufferfish is a large, slow-moving species easily recognised by its intricate labyrinthine skin patterning and yellow-ringed eyes. It is a solitary, benthic species that grazes sponges, tunicates, and algae from hard substrate. At Cap la Houssaye it is commonly encountered wedged into the volcanic archways and overhangs during the day. Like all pufferfish, its internal organs contain tetrodotoxin, one of the most potent neurotoxins in nature.

Evidence at this site

No confirmed records on file at this site

Map pufferfish is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.

How is this calculated?

Sighting evidence is compiled from iNaturalist observation records within a set proximity radius, filtered for quality-grade observations. “Last confirmed” is the date of the most recent research-grade record. Record count covers a rolling 24-month window. Confidence reflects record count, recency, and consistency of seasonal signal.