[3] P. baileyi grows to around 12 centimetres (4.7 in) SL and can be identified by sparse, or dense, coverage of epidermal outgrowths or cirri on the head and body.

[3] The cirri tend to be more profuse in the juvenile state, becoming reduced or non-existent at higher ages.

It is commonly fed both dead and live fish, and while it is not known to be a picky eater, it is strictly a carnivore.

As is natural with pufferfish, if the individual is frightened to the point of death, they will expand into a ball-like shape.

The Hairy Pufferfish is known to be an incredibly smart animal, and will commonly recognize faces if in captivity.