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The Puffer Fish (also known as blowfish, fugu, or balloonfish) is a unique and fascinating group of fish known for their ability to inflate their bodies as a defense mechanism. There are over 120 species of puffer fish found in both freshwater and marine environments, but most are marine.

🔍 Appearance:

• Body Shape: Rounded or torpedo-shaped; can expand into a ball-like shape when threatened.

• Color: Varies widely by species – from dull browns to bright, warning colors (yellow, blue, white, black).

• Eyes: Large, expressive eyes that move independently.

• Beak-like Teeth: Four fused teeth (2 upper, 2 lower) used to crush hard prey like snails and shellfish.

🎈 Inflation Behavior:

• When threatened, puffers rapidly gulp water (or air) to inflate their bodies, making them appear larger and harder to eat.

• Some species have spines that protrude when inflated.

☠️ Toxicity:

• Most puffer fish contain tetrodotoxin, a powerful neurotoxin deadly to predators and humans.

• One of the most toxic vertebrates on Earth—1 puffer can kill several people if consumed improperly.

• In Japan, some species are eaten as fugu, prepared only by licensed chefs.

🌊 Habitat:

• Found in tropical and subtropical oceans, some species also live in brackish and freshwater.

• Prefer coral reefs, lagoons, and sheltered areas.

🍽️ Diet:

• Carnivorous: Eats shellfish, snails, crustaceans, and algae.

• Their strong teeth continuously grow and need to be worn down with hard food.

🛠️ Aquarium Care (for freshwater or dwarf puffers):

• Tank Size: Depends on species; even small puffers need space.

• Behavior: Territorial, often aggressive to tankmates.

• Special Needs: Very sensitive to water quality; best kept in a species-only tank.

• Freshwater puffers (like the Dwarf Puffer or Fahaka Puffer) are popular but require expert care.