Air drum fish and puffer fish, although both belong to the category of fish, have significant differences in many ways. These differences are reflected not only in their morphological characteristics and living habits, but also in their ecological roles and human use patterns. Next, we will make a detailed comparison and identification of these two unique fishes.
1. Morphological characteristics
Air drum fish, generally referred to as pufferfish. It is also known as six-spotted pufferfish, balloon fish, spiny stout, thorny fish, thorny turtle, thorny gauge, air melon boy, two-toothed pufferfish, etc. It usually has a cylindrical body and resembles a cylinder in appearance. They have distinct lateral lines on both sides of their bodies, which helps them perceive changes in the current of water and their surroundings. In addition, the ** of the air drum fish is relatively coarse, with a unique texture and color.
In contrast, pufferfish have a more streamlined body, a body shape that helps them swim quickly in the water. The ** of the puffer fish is smooth and shiny, usually showing a silvery-white or grayish-blue color. They have a larger head and a mouth underneath and have a unique shape and construction.
2. Habits
Air drumfish are demersal fish that usually live on sandy or muddy seafloors. This way of life has allowed them to adapt to more stable currents and benthic environments. Air drum fish are usually nocturnal and feed on benthic invertebrates. They use their keen perception to detect their surroundings and look for food in the dark.
Pufferfish, on the other hand, are active fish that swim quickly in the water, looking for food and escaping predators. Puffer fish have certain requirements for water temperature, and they tend to live in warm waters. They are omnivorous and eat both plants and animals, including small fish, insects, crustaceans, shellfish, etc.
3. Ecological role
Both air drum fish and puffer fish play an important role in the ecosystem. As demersal fish, air drum fish maintain the balance of the marine ecosystem by feeding on benthic invertebrates. Their presence helps to control the population of these invertebrates, preventing their overbreeding from causing damage to the marine ecosystem.
The puffer fish is one of the keystone species in freshwater ecosystems. They maintain the balance of freshwater ecosystems by preying on small fish, insects, and other aquatic organisms. In addition, puffer fish are an important link in the food chain in freshwater ecosystems, and their presence provides food for other predators**.
Fourth, the way of human use
In some areas, air drum fish are considered food fish. However, due to their thorny and fleshy characteristics, they are not often used as an ingredient. In contrast, puffer fish is considered a delicacy in some countries in Asia, such as Japan, due to its delicate meat and delicious taste. However, the toxicity of puffer fish also makes it a dangerous ingredient. Some species of puffer fish contain deadly toxins that can lead to the death of those who eat them if not handled properly. Therefore, professional chefs and experienced fishermen need to take extra care when handling and cooking pufferfish.
In general, although they are both fishes, there are significant differences in morphological characteristics, living habits, ecological roles and human utilization methods. Understanding these differences not only helps us better appreciate these two unique creatures, but also helps us gain a deeper understanding of the complexity of ecosystems and the diversity of organisms.