Canthigaster figueiredoi Moura & Castro, 2002
Southern Atlantic sharpnose-puffer
Canthigaster figueiredoi
photo by Sampaio, C.L.S.

Family:  Tetraodontidae (Puffers), subfamily: Canthigasterinae
Max. size:  12 cm NG (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 70 m
Distribution:  Western Atlantic: southern Caribbean to Santa Catarina, Brazil, including the oceanic islands of Atol das Rocas and Fernando de Noronha.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 0-0; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9-10; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 9-9. Differs from other Atlantic Canthigaster species by the long anterior extension of the lower horizontal dark stripe on the flank (composed of irregular horizontal and diagonal bars and originating as a solid stripe on the ventral caudal fin margin). This stripe reaches the pectoral fin base. Differs from C. jamestyleri by the presence of a dark caudal-fin margin, the absence of vertically oriented bars on the caudal fin, the possession of fewer stripes and spots on body especially on the dorsum, as well as by the absence of a small black irregular spot on the anal fin base (Ref. 43205).
Biology:  Inhabits coral-rich as well as coral-poor areas, and areas with rocky bottoms (Ref. 43205). Maximum depth from Ref. 126840. Often in pairs, hovering over the reef during the day (Ref. 43205). Feeds on vegetation, sponges, crustaceans, and mollusks (Ref. 42064).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 10 June 2011 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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