Longspine porcupinefish

The longspine porcupinefish is a pufferfish relative in the family Diodontidae, found circumtropically on reefs and in coastal waters worldwide. It shelters in caves and ledges by day. It has a tan, mottled body covered in long spines that normally lie flat but erect when the fish inflates itself with water as a defense. Large expressive eyes and a beak-like mouth give it an appealing, almost dog-like look. It is generally peaceful but grows large and has powerful crushing jaws, so it needs a spacious aquarium and cannot be trusted with small invertebrates or delicate tankmates. It requires hard-shelled foods such as shrimp, mussels, and crab to wear down its constantly growing teeth. It is hardy but should never be lifted into air. Suited to intermediate keepers with large tanks.