Silver cheeked toadfish
Lagocephalus sceleratus
Special Features
In terms of behavior, the silver cheeked toadfish is quite assertive and not very picky about food. It eats everything it can overpower and does not shy away from fishing nets, which has earned it a bad reputation in fishing. In new habitats, it spreads quickly and puts pressure on other species. Thanks to its potent poison, it has few natural enemies and rarely needs to be wary of other animals.
Appearance
The silver cheeked toadfish has a rather slender, elongated body and can grow surprisingly large. Its upper side is greenish to brownish and adorned with dark spots, while the belly remains light. A characteristic feature is the silvery stripe on the side that extends from the head to the forked tail fin. Small, spiky protrusions sit on the skin, which can be recognized especially upon closer inspection. Overall, the fish appears quite streamlined despite its size.
Natural Enemies
Due to their poison, they have few natural enemies.
Dangerous/Poisons
Pufferfish contain tetrodotoxin, one of the strongest natural poisons. Therefore, their consumption can cause muscle paralysis, including of the respiratory muscles, which can lead to asphyxiation.
Pro Tips
The silver cheeked toadfish actually originates from the Indo-Pacific but has "discovered" the Mediterranean, where it has become quite widespread and is considered invasive. It is commonly found in shallow bays, seagrass beds, or at harbors, usually at dusk when it goes hunting. It eats everything that swims in front of its snout, and due to its potent poison, it's better to admire it from a distance. Those who see it experience a small, spiky wild catch with a big appetite and poisonous charm.
Text: Zettel Carina
