Pufferfishes in Hawaii
Pufferfishes are reef fish known for their balloon-like defense. When threatened, they take in water and swell into a larger, rounder shape. This makes them harder for predators to swallow.
In Hawaii, pufferfishes are called makimaki. Twelve species live in Hawaiian waters, and three are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world. Their bodies are scaleless, with bristled skin, strong jaws and sharp beaklike teeth.
Pufferfishes and Porcupinefishes
Pufferfishes are closely related to porcupinefishes, but they are not exactly the same. Both can inflate when threatened, and both can be toxic. The main difference is the skin. Pufferfishes have bristles, while porcupinefishes have long external spines.
People should never try to make a pufferfish inflate for a photo. Inflation is a stress response, and handling the fish can harm it. It can also put the person at risk.
Poison, Feeding and Safe Viewing
Pufferfishes contain tetrodotoxin, a powerful poison. They should not be eaten or handled. They also have strong jaws that help them crush hard-shelled prey such as crustaceans and mollusks.
Many pufferfishes feed mainly at night. During the day, snorkelers may see them moving slowly around reef areas. Watch from a calm distance, and do not touch, chase or corner them. Related pages include the Hawaii fish guide, porcupinefishes, boxfishes, filefishes and Hawaii beach safety tips.
