Porcupine Puffer
Porcupine Puffer, Diodon holocanthus, is also know as the Balloon Fish or the Long-Spined Porcupine Fish. It is tan on the top, white on the bottom, with black and dark brown mottling on its body. Though this personable fish may be somewhat shy when initially introduced, it will likely become overtly bold in its patrolling of its home. It will typically greet any viewers in hopes of receiving another meal. It will eat a tremendous amount of food if given to it, but will do fine with a couple of feedings a day. This species may even learn to eat from the owner's hands (but be careful of the strong jaws.) With the potential to grow to a foot and a half in length, this hardy species requires meaty foods including krill, clam, and carnivore preparations. Because in the wild it feeds on some sea anemones and the flesh of hard corals, it is safe for fish-only aquariums.
Approximate Arrival Size for Porcupine Puffer: Small: 2-3.25"; Medium: 3-4.5"; Large: 4.75-6.25"; X-Large: 6.5-7.5"
Detailed Information about this species.
