This is the first comprehensive book on the biology and ecology of pufferfish, also known as blowfish, swellfish, and globefish. Covering 197 species of pufferfish recorded so far from the marine, brackish, and freshwater ecosystems of the world, this important volume expounds on the toxins and associated poisonings of pufferfish. Importantly, the volume also explores the many uses of pufferfish, such as in aquariums, for their nutritional and culinary value, and for their emerging uses in the treatment of pain. Topics covered include: biology and ecology of pufferfish profiles of the world’s marine, brackish, and freshwater pufferfish species characteristics of TTX (tetrodotoxin) and STX (saxitoxin) of pufferfish pufferfish poisoning and symptoms: treatment and management aquarium uses of pufferfish nutritional and pharmaceutical values of pufferfish diseases and parasites of pufferfish and their management

How a frightened little fish avoids becoming a tasty little snack for a big hungry fish.

The puzzling thing about the pufferfish or blowfish is that it is highly toxic yet some people consider it a delicacy. That can make for a dangerous dinner. This book describes how the spikey fish got its name, how it fights off predators, where it lives, the strength of its toxins, and how a skilled chef can render it safe to eat.

At the sight of danger, puffer fish blow up! Their bodies become like balloons. Their plump lips and oversize eyes, usually exaggerated, look more proportionate for a time. The goal is to use size to intimidate. Fascinating content in this title will suck young readers in.

"A group of underwater friends learn to ask for permission before showing their prickly, pufferfish pal some love"--

The cute-but-deadly puffer fish is explored in this exciting, dynamic peek at underwater life.

Explore the underwater life of the cute-but-deadly puffer fish.

What's that spiky ball with big eyes? It's a puffer fish! This strange fish gulps down water to puff itself up . . . and up . . . and up. Why does it do this? Beginning readers will learn the answer in this simple yet playful nonfiction text. They will also learn basic information about where puffers live, what they eat, and all about their peculiar bodies and behaviors. Each 24-page book features controlled text with age-appropriate vocabulary and simple sentence construction. The lively text, colorful design, and eye-catching photos are sure to capture the interest of emergent readers.

What has 4 teeth, 120 different species, spines all over its body, and is one of the most poisonous animals in the world? The pufferfish! Avid and reluctant readers alike will quickly devour the fascinating facts about the habitat, life cycle, evolution, and more of this strange family of fish. Each spread is filled with lively, full-color photography of this incredibly diverse family of bizarre fish. Fact boxes add to the exciting learning experience by providing quick, wacky tidbits! For instance, pufferfish defend themselves by filling up like a water balloon! Biology does not get any cooler than this!