Marine Predators:
* Sharks: Some species, like the tiger shark, are known to prey on pufferfish.
* Tuna: Larger tuna species, like the yellowfin tuna, can overcome the pufferfish's defenses.
* Dolphins: Dolphins are intelligent and skilled hunters, and some have learned to avoid the pufferfish's toxins.
* Sea turtles: Green sea turtles, in particular, have been observed to eat pufferfish.
* Grouper: Some grouper species, like the goliath grouper, are large enough to swallow pufferfish whole.
* Other fish: Large fish like moray eels, barracuda, and even some larger fish of the same species can prey on pufferfish.
Birds:
* Seabirds: Seabirds, like gulls, can snatch pufferfish from the water.
* Hawks: Some hawks, particularly those found near coastal areas, have been known to prey on pufferfish.
It's important to note that:
* Pufferfish's defense mechanisms, such as their pufferfish toxins and spines, make them less appealing prey for many animals.
* The specific predators of a particular pufferfish species depend on the size, habitat, and defense mechanisms of the fish.
* Many predators have evolved to avoid or minimize the effects of the toxins.
Overall, pufferfish are a relatively vulnerable prey item, despite their unique defenses. Their predators represent a diverse range of marine life, demonstrating the complex and interconnected nature of food webs.