Species FishPorcupinefish

Porcupinefish

Diodon hystrix

CommonFish
Illustration of Porcupinefish (Diodon hystrix)
Safety note: Ciguatera poisoning can occur if consumed.

The Porcupinefish is easily recognized by its ability to inflate its body and its spiny exterior. They are often found in shallow waters and can be quite curious.

Habitat
Lives in warm, shallow waters near reefs.
Diet
Primarily eats crustaceans and mollusks.
How common
Common

Recent Porcupinefish sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

Spot a Porcupinefish? Identify it instantly.

Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.

Get Huck

Get an alert when a Porcupinefish is spotted

Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.

Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.

Love fish? Get Huck field notes

Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.

By subscribing you agree to receive Huck emails. No spam, unsubscribe anytime. See our Privacy Policy.

More fish

Porkfish
Porkfish
Anisotremus virginicus
Port Jackson Shark
Port Jackson Shark
Heterodontus portusjacksoni
Powder Blue Tang
Powder Blue Tang
Acanthurus leucosternon
Prickly Sculpin
Prickly Sculpin
Cottus asper
Princess Damsel
Princess Damsel
Pomacentrus vaiuli
Princess Parrotfish
Princess Parrotfish
Scarus taeniopterus
Prussian Carp
Prussian Carp
Carassius gibelio
Puddingwife Wrasse
Puddingwife Wrasse
Halichoeres radiatus