The peculiar looking but deceptively poisonous puffer fish was referred to by David Attenborough as “the greatest artist of the animal kingdom.”

Noted for its unique ability to take in air and “puff” itself up to scare off potential prey, the puffer fish is an otherwise innocuous presence in the aquatic realm.

Culinary delicacy or curiosity, there are many reasons to look to this creature in awe, and maybe even commit its permanent likeness to the flesh.

A puffer fish tattoo stands apart just by virtue of its famously unique visage, but did you know the symbolism of the puffer fish is quite significant? The puffer fish represents untapped sources of strength and courage, and often appears in our dreams when we are allowing others to bully or take advantage of us.

Belief holds that the poison of the puffer fish is a symbolic warning from the incorporeal world to take nothing-and no one-for granted, and to never push boundaries beyond what is acceptable, lest one risk an unpleasant demise. At once beautiful and formidable, the puffer fish is the unexpected totem of extraordinary souls who frequently find their individuality threatened or degraded by lesser entities.

These puffer fish tattoo ideas let the world know that while you are generally content to swim in peace with others, you will not hesitate to defend yourself and all that you hold dear. You’ve fought hard to earn your place in the world, and woe to the creature who mistakes your unusual style and unassuming nature for a free pass.