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The
puffer fish is also known as the blowfish, fugu, swellfish,
and globefish. It is called the puffer fish because when it is
threatened, it puffs up to about twice its normal size by
gulping water. In this engorged state, the puffer fish can
swim at only about half its normal speed. |
Puffer fish have a small mouth, a tube-shaped body (when not
puffed up) and relatively small fins. When puffed up, they are
almost spherical. Puffer fish range in size from just a few
inches long to almost 2 feet long. There are about 100 species
of puffer fish. A few species of puffer fish have spines
on their body, but many do not. They use these spines to
protect themselves against enemies. The skin of puffers
is very elastic (it can stretch very well). |
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Diet:
Puffer fish are carnivores or meat-eaters. They eat
corals, sponges, sea urchins, other echinoderms, and small
crustaceans. Puffer fish crush and grind up their prey with
their heavy, fused teeth.
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Habitat
and Shelter:
Most puffer fish are found in sub-tropical and tropical marine
waters including coral reefs, in the Atlantic Ocean (including
near Georgia's coast), Pacific Ocean, and Indian Ocean. Some
puffers live in fresh water. Puffer fish make their
shelter in the sand and plants that live in the ocean.
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Predators:
Some predators of the puffer fish include tiger sharks and sea
snakes. Other types of fish and humans are also enemies
of the puffer fish. |
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