Yellow-Spotted Pufferfish

Yellow-Spotted Pufferfish (Torquigener flavimaculosus)

• Size: Up to 12 cm long

• Appearance: Small, round body covered in bright yellow spots on a pale background; able to inflate itself when threatened

• Habitat: Sandy and muddy seabeds, often near seagrass beds and rocky areas

• Behavior: Generally shy and slow-moving; feeds on small invertebrates. Inflates its body as a defense mechanism to deter predators.

• Notes: An invasive species in the Mediterranean, including Crete. Despite its cute appearance, its skin contains toxins, so it should not be touched.

One of the more recent and intriguing additions to Crete’s marine life is the yellow-spotted pufferfish (Torquigener flavimaculosus). This small but striking species has become increasingly common during dives around Almyrida and Chania, captivating divers with its distinctive bright yellow spots and curious behavior. Originally native to the Indo-Pacific region, the yellow-spotted pufferfish entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal in a process known as Lessepsian migration—an example of how marine ecosystems are constantly shifting and evolving. While not dangerous to humans, this pufferfish possesses a unique defense mechanism: when threatened, it inflates its body into a spiky, puffed-up ball, a fascinating and rare sight that adds excitement to underwater explorations. Its presence in Crete highlights the dynamic nature of the Mediterranean Sea and the ongoing challenges and wonders faced by local marine biodiversity.