To Puff Or Not To Puff

Stripebelly Puffer, Photo Courtesy Dr. Jack Randall

Puffers are so named for their ability to swell up by drawing in water (or air if out of the water) into a highly distensible diverticulum of their stomachs.  They have amazing jaws fused to beak-like plates and a slit-like opening in front of the pectoral fins.  Their have no pelvic fins and no ribs.  Their skin is very tough with no scales.  Puffers are known for producing a very powerful poison (tetrodotoxin) in their tissues, liver, and ovaries.  Depending on the species, the toxin strength varies, some species safe to eat and others may be lethal.  According to researchers, this may also vary depending on the geographical area and reproductive season.  In Japan, they are known as Fugu.  In accordance with Japan laws, only the most highly and specialized training will enable a sushi chef to serve this fish, thought by some to be a delicacy.  In Japan it is eaten raw, grilled, or in soups.  It is said by those who eat it that the flavor is very light and delicate.  Even though the most toxic part of the fish is discarded, this author has had many conversations with Japanese visitors who claim that the gentle numbing buzz one gets from eating this dangerous fish is quite worth the concerns.  (Yikes!) 

Most puffers are solitary, but a few may form small schools.  Currently known to scientists, there are 14 species of puffers recorded living in Hawaiian waters, and 9 of those are near-shore.  That means most snorkelers, when taking their time on the water will most likely see one.  I love the fact that they eat anything that doesn’t swim away since they are not a very speedy animal.  With their impressive crushing plates they can easily make short work of any sea urchins, mussels, clams, worms, and probably crabs and lobsters.  

One morning early, while snorkeling with one of my sons off a south Maui beach, we noticed two puffers holding vigilance over a particular section of reef.  When we approached slowly they backed away.  It didn’t take long to find their comfort zone and we respectfully held our place watching them to see what is was they were waiting for.  Then we saw it.  It was a collector urchin who was cautiously trudging down the rock face toward the sandy bottom.  They kept close by, following it slowly.  We were nearly giddy with anticipation.  Close to the rocks edge the urchin lost its grip falling several inches.  The pair pounced in an instant, gutting the poor unsuspecting sea urchin.  I must say, emotions ran every which direction, but the first was dismay and sorrow for the urchin, then curiosity took over.  We knew we were witnessing a very wondrous part of wildlife……carnage!

The ancient Hawaiians used the name o`opu hue for many species of puffer.  Translated it means: gourd.  This fish was `aumakua (Family God) for many.

Upon your arrival to the islands, most folks want to get out there and snorkel.  It is summertime and the best way to beat the heat is get out in the water!  Grab some gear and wade in.  Some folks prefer going out on boats to such wonderful places as Molokini, Lana`i, or Moloka`i.  Whatever your pleasure is, take the time to observe the locals in the reefs.  You never know what you might find.

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