Chicken-Hugging Fish

Chicken-Hugging Fish

　　Also known as “pufferfish,” it is a poisonous fish, especially toxic in the liver, ovaries, and blood. An old saying goes, “When the reeds grow one foot tall, don’t host or be a guest of the pufferfish.” This indicates that spring is both the pufferfish’s breeding season and when it is most toxic. The toxins of the pufferfish can be refined through scientific methods to create effective remedies for neurological conditions. The taste of pufferfish is extremely delicious; it is often prepared by removing its internal organs, drying it, and using it to make soup. However, it must be handled properly—improper preparation can cause poisoning, and in severe cases, even death. As a result, the government has issued regulations prohibiting the consumption of pufferfish. (Panyu)