The Astonishing Underwater Artwork of the Japanese Pufferfish

Think a card and some roses are going to cut it for your lady? You better hope she doesn't find out about the Japanese pufferfish.

I remember listening to a speech once by the late philosopher Sir Roger Scruton, in which he explained why he thought humans appreciate beauty through art. In it, he criticized evolutionary biologists, who claim that art is basically just people demonstrating skills to help them attract a mate. I think he's right that there is something more than that going on, but the biologists have a point too. Just take a look at the Japanese pufferfish.

Underwater Art

Take a diving trip around the coast of Japan, and there's a chance you'll come across some strange circles on the seabed. They can span up to two meters, and within them are various lines, shapes, and shells which make them look like works of art. But the male pufferfish actually spends a week or more crafting one of these in order to attract a mate. If the female likes it, she'll drop her eggs off in the middle.

Check it out below! 

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