The bullseye puffer (Sphoeroides annulatus), also known as the bandtail puffer or Mexican puffer, is a medium-sized marine fish recognized for its rounded body, distinct dark bands on the tail, and the ability to inflate itself as a defense mechanism. Native to the eastern Pacific, especially from California to Peru, the bullseye puffer is most commonly found in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and mangroves. The primary countries engaged in harvesting this species are Mexico, Peru, and Ecuador, where it is caught both as bycatch in artisanal fisheries and, to a lesser extent, targeted for local consumption. While not a major export species due to the presence of tetrodotoxin—a potent neurotoxin found in some pufferfish—the bullseye puffer is valued in local markets and sometimes used in traditional dishes, provided it is prepared by knowledgeable fish handlers. The fishing industry in these countries focuses on sustainable practices due to the ecological importance of pufferfish in coastal ecosystems, and regulations are in place to minimize overfishing and accidental poisoning incidents.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 36 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.