Inflation Defense
When an animal puffs up its body to look bigger and scare away predators.
What is it?
Inflation defense is a behavior where an animal fills its body with air or water to become larger. The tomato frog inflates its body when threatened, making it look like a tomato. This makes it harder for predators to swallow and may startle them. Other animals that use inflation include pufferfish, which become spiky balls, and some lizards that puff up their throats.
Why it matters
Inflation defense helps animals avoid being eaten. It is a clever way to use the body's own shape for protection.
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