BalloonFish
Morphology
Tan ovular-shaped body with brown and black spots over entire body. Long spines are found over entire body surface, starting at the forehead. Eyes are large and with yellow irises. They have bilateral symmetry. |
Biology
Adults of this species tend to prefer coral and rocky reefs, mangrove areas, and muddy, sandy and grassy flats. Mostly a relatively shallow water fish. Diet consists primarily of a variety of mollusks, mostly gastropods, and other hard-shelled animals. |
Importance
Ecological
They eat sea urchins and hermit crabs which keeps the food chain in order. |
Economical
Relatives of the balloon fish are popular in Asian sushi restaurants. However balloon fish are not normally consumed. Dried, inflated bodies of balloon fish are a relatively common novelty for tourists on vacation in tropical areas. |
Facts about the Balloon Fish
- When threatened or frightened, the balloon fish will take in water - thereby noticeably expanding its overall body size. In this inflated state, its spines stand erect. The spines and the enlarged size can prove intimidating to potential predators.
- Throughout certain Pacific island communities, the balloon fish was historically fashioned as a helmet.
- The size of balloon fish can stretch up to 50 centimeters though the average size of this fish ranges from 20 cm to 30 cm.
- They have big eyes that allow them to lurk for prey in the dusk.
- The adult balloon fish prefers to stay alone while some young ones usually come together in groups.
Vocabulary
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