One fabulous defensive strategy is self-inflating when threatened by rapidly gulping water and turning into a spikey ball. Not many can claim the distinction though. They also bite with digit removing vigor, which is another reason not to grab one. I sketched them in both deflated and fully expanded modes on a snorkel trip in Hawaii. It’s also wise to avoid eating them because they contain tetrodotoxin, a neurotoxin that’s 1200 times more toxic than cyanide, with no known antidote. They are however adorable, for spikey, poisonous, biters.

Please write to clbnyart@gmail.com for prices and information about paintings, prints and commissions. The fully inflated 9.5 x 13″ pufferfish painting is available. I personally answer all inquiries and look forward to hearing from you.