The exceptions to this rule constitute some rather spectacularly
endowed predators that are capable of chopping
large items into smaller, swallowable pieces. Sharks as a
group can take bites out of prey or cut prey items into
pieces, undoubtably a trait that has contributed substantially
to their 400-million-year success story. Among bony
fishes, a few species have such sharklike capabilities,
notably piranhas and African Tigerfish (Alestiidae), Bluefish
(Pomatomidae), and barracuda (Sphyraenidae) – all fishes
with specialized cutting or chopping dentition and powerful
jaw muscles. Some advanced coral reef species use powerful
jaws and teeth to tear pieces out of sponges, such as
various pufferfishes (Tetraodontidae, Diodontidae). Others
can take small pieces of fins or flesh from prey, including
some characins and cichlids, sabre-toothed blennies
(Blenniidae), and at least one species of Forcipiger butterflyfish
(Chaetodontidae).