What is a Puffer Fish?
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         In scientific terms, a puffer fish is a member of the family tetraodontidae. Puffer fishes bodyies are rather round, resembling a balloon. It has the ability to puff itself up when attacked which has been a source of fascination for viewers. It does so by gulping water from its surrounding into its stomach. And this is possible as puffers do not possess any bone except the spine. Most puffers also possess a toxin named tetraodontoxin which is one of nature's most lethal toxin which deters its attackers. Puffers also lack scales and dorsal fins too. Certain puffers are covered with spines which makes it becomes a nasty meal when it inflates itself.

         Although most puffers are marine, there are also some freshwater and brackish puffers. Puffers can be found throughout the world in oceans, estuaries, swamps, rivers and lakes. Puffers vary greatly in size, shape and appearance. Research on the puffer that you are planning to buy through books, the internet, ect.

          In the fish-hobby, puffers are known as a choosy eater and very aggressive fish. Puffer fish keeping is not very common in the fish-keeping hobby as they are not suited to a community tank and have special feeding requirements. Though brackish and freshwater are common puffers available in the market, certain marine puffers can be found on sale too. Puffers tend to require a single tank to itself though not for most cases.
A puffed up
porcupine puffer.