Cowfish Relatives

Antenna Burrfish (Chilomycterus antennatus)

An unusual group of fish is found in the order Tetraodontiformidae, meaning four-toothed. Although each family appears quite different from each other, they have many similarities.

• All the members of this family have fewer teeth than most fish and large jaw bones.

• They have no lower ribs, pelvic fins, nor pelvic girdle in some.

• They have a fewer number of bones in their skull compared to other fish.

• They are all capable of independent eye movement. This means they can move their eyes in two different directions at the same time.

• They have gill slits without typical gill covers.

• They also have the ability to blow jets of water into sandy substrate in attempts to uncover hiding prey.

• Many species in this order have the ability to exude toxin when frightened or threatened.

• They have unusual body shapes.

• They have a specialized method of swimming, unique from typical fish.

The following fish families are Tetraodontiformes, and therefore, related:

Triggerfish: Balistidae Compressed, ovoid bodies.

Filefish: Monocanthidae Similar to Balistidae, but more elongated.

Pufferfish: Tetraodontidae Globe-shaped or elongated, compressed bodies.

Boxfish: Ostraciidae Box-shaped bodies.

Balloonfish and Burrfish: Diodontidae Globe or balloon-shaped bodies with visible spines.

To view more information about Tetraodontiformes, select a photo from one of the families listed below.