Puffer fish seduces mates with poison

The deadly poison of puffer fish helps them breed, feed, defend themselves and attract their partners.

Research done at the Institute of Molecular, Cell Biology and National University of Singapore has shown how well this pufferfish can live despite the amount of dangerous toxins in the body.

Scientists say a process called evolutionary adaptation has allowed the fish to become immune to the poison tetrodotoxin, a poison that is 20 times more toxic than cyanide. This type of toxin comes from their food, mainly poisoned marine creatures.

"By comparing the gene sequences of puffer fish, zebrafish and humans, the group found an evolutionary adaptation that allowed the fish to resist toxins. In addition to helping them defend themselves, resistance Tetrodotoxin also helps fish eat food containing toxins that other species often avoid. "

It is also the toxin that puffer fish uses to seduce males during the breeding season.

This unique fish species is a premium specialty in Japan. The top chefs are trained in the art of removing poisons before processing fish. They pay special attention to the liver, ovaries, intestines and skin - highly toxic parts.

If customers unfortunately eat poison, they may be paralyzed, lethargic, burning skin or convulsions.

MT ( according to AFP )