What is the scientific name for pufferfish?
Q: What is the scientific name for pufferfish?
A: The scientific name for pufferfish refers to their four large teeth, which are fused into an upper and lower plate.
Q: How do pufferfish defend themselves when threatened?
A: When threatened, pufferfish puff up to about twice their normal size by gulping water. This enlarged state allows them to swim at only about half their normal speed.
Q: Where can you find pufferfish?
A: Pufferfish are generally found in sub-tropical and tropical marine waters (including coral reefs) in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Some species also live in brackish and fresh water.
Q: What is the most powerful neurotoxin used by pufferfish?
A: Pufferfish use tetrodotoxin as a powerful neurotoxin for defense against predators.
Q: Is it safe to eat certain species of pufferfish?
A: Even though they are poisonous, some species of pufferfish are considered safe to eat when prepared by specially trained chefs who know which parts and how much of them are safe to consume. These dishes can be found in Japan (as 河豚), Korea (as 복 bok or 복어 bogeo ), and China (as 河豚 hétún).
Q: Are there any other names for the family of fish known as "pufferfish"?
A: Yes, they are also known as blowfish, fugu, swellfish, and globefish.
Q: Can people keep these fish as pets?
A: Yes, some people keep these fish as pets.
