Puffer fish, also known as blowfish, vary significantly in size and weight depending on the species. On average, adult puffer fish can weigh anywhere from 2 to 50 pounds. For instance, the Mbu puffer, one of the largest species, can reach weights of up to 24 pounds, while smaller species like the pygmy puffer may weigh less than a pound. The weight is greatly affected by their habitat, diet, and age.
In addition to their weight, it’s interesting to note that puffer fish are famous for their unique ability to inflate themselves as a defense mechanism against predators. When threatened, they gulp water (or air) into their bodies, allowing them to swell to several times their normal size. This not only makes them look larger and more intimidating but also makes it difficult for predators to swallow them.