Pufferfish are small to medium-sized fish that range in size from 2.5 to 40 cm in length. They have a distinctive inflated shape, with some species able to inflate their bodies to twice their normal size by taking in water.
The majority of pufferfish species have spines on their skin, which may be toxic and can cause a mild to severe reaction if ingested.
They have sharp, beak-like teeth that they use to crush shells.
Pufferfish are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, including the Caribbean, Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
They generally inhabit shallow lagoons, coral reefs and estuaries, where they feed on small mollusks, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.
Pufferfish feed mainly on small mollusks, crustaceans and other invertebrates, although a few species also feed on algae and other plant material.
They are typically found in shallow lagoons, coral reefs and estuaries, where they use their sharp, beak-like teeth to crush shells and other food items.
Most pufferfish species are solitary, although some species form small groups. They have excellent vision and have the ability to detect small movements in the water, which helps them spot potential prey.
Pufferfish are generally shy and reclusive, and they are not aggressive towards other fish. However, they can become agitated if they feel threatened, and will puff up their bodies as a defense mechanism.
Pufferfish belong to the family Tetraodontidae, which includes over 120 species. They are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, including the Caribbean, Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The most common pufferfish species include the:
- yellow-spotted pufferfish (Arothron meleagris)
- green pufferfish (Tetraodon fluviatilis)
- rough-scaled pufferfish (Tetraodon schoutedeni).
