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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.

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Common name: spotted green pufferfish

Synonyms and Other Names: synonyms: Tetrodon nigroviridis, Tetraodon potamophilus and Tetrodon simulans; common names: Burmese pufferfish, green puffer fish; Chelonodon nigroviridis is also used to refer to this species.

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Dorsal 12-14 rays; Anal 10-12 rays.  The body is long, laterally compressed posteriorly and with an arched dorsal profile.  The mouth is terminal.  Nostril is a tentacle, divided into two flattened and broadened lobes; apposed surfaces of lobes often with spongy tissue.  Lateral line mostly indistinct.  Body spinules small, often hidden under the skin, covering dorsum, sides and belly (Talwar and Jhingran 1992).

The upper part of the body is covered with small, round, evenly-scattered spots.  The species is easily confused with its close relative, Tetraodon fluviatilis.  However, T. fluviatilis lacks evenly-scattered spots on the dorsum; instead, it has several large dark blotches surrounded by yellow borders on the back half of the body (Rainboth 1996).

Size: to 17 cm (Froese and Pauly 2005)

Native Range: Tetraodon nigroviridis is native to Asia, from Sri Lanka to Indonesia and north to China (Froese and Pauly, 2012).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Ecology: The species lives in fresh- or brackish-water areas.  In its native habitat, the spotted green pufferfish inhabits streams, rivers and floodplains and feeds on mollusks, crustaceans, other vertebrates and some plant matter (Rainboth 1996).

Means of Introduction: Aquaculture escapee from a nearby tropical fish farm.

Status: Reported from Louisiana.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: Similar to its close relatives, the spotted green pufferfish may be poisonous when eaten.

The species is seen in the aquarium trade; however, it is known to be aggressive towards tankmates (Rainboth 1996).

References: (click for full references)

Froese, R. and D. Pauly (eds). 2012. FishBase. World Wide Web electronic publication. Available from: http://www.fishbase.org.  Version (08/2012).

Rainboth, W. J.  1996.  Fishes of the Cambodian Mekong.  FAO Species Identification Field Guide for Fishery Purposes

Talwar, P. K. and A. G. Jhingran.  1992.  Inland fishes of India and adjacent countries.  Volume 2.  A. A. Balkema, Rotterdam.

Other Resources:

Author: Schofield, P.J., and Fuller, P.

Peer Review Date: 8/7/2013

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.