Lagocephalus laevigatus

Lagocephalus laevigatus,[1] known as the smooth puffer, is a species of pufferfish in the family Tetraodontidae.

Adults of the species are pelagic and found near continental margins, whereas juveniles are usually found closer to shore or offshore banks, with both occurring either alone or in small, loose groups.

It occurs at a depth range of 10 to 180 m (33 to 591 ft) over sandy or muddy bottoms and is a very large pufferfish, reaching 100 cm (39.4 inches) in total length.

The species feeds on fish and shrimp and can be dangerously toxic if ingested.

[2] It is sometimes confused with the related species Lagocephalus inermis which is native to the Indo-Pacific.

Three recently caught smooth puffers on the shore near Bortianor , Ghana .