Smile for the camera….This barred porcupine fish (Diodon holocanthus) also commonly called a balloon fish seemed quite content looking at his own reflection in the optics of my camera lens today at Ensenada Grande. While in a totally relaxed state the balloon fish’s formidable defense mechanism is not inherently apparent. However, if threatened this unique fish inhales water until it is approximately three times its original size, and its secret weapon is activated. Spines adorn the entire animal and are folded back to somewhat streamline the animal while moving through the water. As a result of engulfing such a quantity of water and blowing up like a balloon (hence the name), these spines flex away from the body. This makes the animal appear quite unappealing to predators. These fish are considered non-edible and in fact may be poisonous. The identifying characteristics of the barred porcupine fish besides the ability to radically change body volume and shape are dark bars that pass through the eyes as well as four dark blotches along the back or dorsal side. They can be found in most tropical seas worldwide and are particularly abundant in the central and lower Gulf of California.