Pufferfish Attack Reported During Search Operation in Mae Klong River

On August 17, 2026, Khaosod Online reported an unusual incident involving a pufferfish in the Mae Klong River, Ratchaburi province. Chalermphon Hongyont, head of the Region 7 Water Rescue Club, known locally as 'Ko Yai,' was conducting a ten-day search for a 46-year-old missing man when he was bitten on the ear while submerged. Upon surfacing, he discovered a portion of his ear had been severed. The rescue team subsequently located a pufferfish in the vicinity, which they believe was responsible for the injury.

Following the incident, the rescue team demonstrated the sharpness of the fish's teeth by having a specimen bite through a plastic straw, which was severed instantly. Experts suggest that the aggressive behavior may be linked to the current spawning season, as pufferfish are known to guard their nests in calm, clear waters near aquatic vegetation.

For residents and travelers, this incident highlights the importance of caution when entering river waters, particularly in areas with dense vegetation where fish may be nesting. While the biodiversity of the Mae Klong River is a point of local interest, the sharpness of pufferfish teeth poses a genuine risk to swimmers and divers. It remains to be confirmed if such aggressive territorial behavior is widespread across other sections of the river or if it is isolated to specific nesting sites during this season.