pufferfish

A pufferfish belongs to the family Tetraodontidae. They are known for their ability to inflate themselves to several times their normal size by swallowing water or air when in danger. The same ability is found in porcupinefishes that unlike pufferfishes have got spines. There are also painted pufferfishes. This fish is a delicacy of the Japan cuisine though, if not rightly cooked, can be dangerous since the ovaries and the liver contain a potent nerve poison.

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