Spiny Box Puffer

Spiny Box Puffers stack three separate defenses into one slow-moving fish: a coat of modified scales-turned-spines that lie flat until trouble shows up, an inflation reflex that gulps water to double or triple body size in seconds, and the same toxin most of this family carries in its skin and organs. Watching the spines snap upright mid-inflation is one of the more startling things you'll see in a home aquarium, and it's usually enough to end any predator's interest on the spot. Slow, curious, and about as food-motivated as fish get.

Care level: Easy · Temperament: Semi-aggressive · Max size: ~9" · Min tank: 75 gal · Diet: Carnivore, shell-on foods for teeth + meaty foods