How does the puffer fish hunt its food?

Pufferfish don't actively hunt their food in the traditional sense. They are opportunistic feeders and rely on a strategy of suction feeding. Here's how it works:

1. Waiting: They typically rest on the seabed or in coral reefs, waiting for prey to come within reach.

2. Spotting Prey: They have excellent eyesight and can detect small invertebrates, crustaceans, and even small fish.

3. Suction: When prey comes close, they quickly open their mouths, creating a strong suction force that draws the prey into their mouths.

4. No Teeth: They lack teeth, so the suction force is crucial for catching and swallowing food.

5. Specialized Jaws: Their jaws are designed for crushing shells and exoskeletons of their prey.

In addition to this method, some pufferfish species are known to forage for food, meaning they actively search for food by moving around their environment. They might even use their fins to stir up sediment and unearth prey hidden beneath.

Important Note: While not technically hunters, pufferfish are known for their unique defense mechanism - inflating their bodies to appear larger and deter predators. This defense mechanism does not play a role in their feeding.