How are tetraodontiform teeth adapted for feeding?

The teeth of tetraodontiforms are highly adapted for their role as opportunistic predators of invertebrates. Many species possess massive, well-developed dentition, with teeth often fused together to form a powerful, parrotlike beak. This specialized structure allows them to crush the hard shells of crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms.12

The specific configuration of these teeth varies across the order:
* Puffer fishes (Tetraodontidae) have fused teeth that create a beaklike structure with a distinct split in the center of each jaw.34
* Porcupine fishes (Diodontidae) and ocean sunfishes (Molidae) feature two tooth plates, with one in each jaw.5
* Triggerfishes (Balistidae) possess distinct outer teeth, with eight in each jaw.5

While most use these jaws to crush hard prey, some species have evolved differently. For instance, ocean sunfishes use their massive jaws to feed on soft-bodied invertebrates like jellyfish, while certain long-snouted species have reduced or rudimentary teeth, sometimes feeding on the scales of other fish.1