Longspined Porcupine Pufferfish

The Longspined Porcupine Pufferfish (Diodon holocanthus) is a semi-aggressive species that is not reef-safe, admired for its distinct spines, inflated defense mechanism, large expressive eyes, and unique spotted/banded patterning. Males typically grow slightly larger and may display more territorial behavior, while females/juveniles are similar in appearance but often less aggressive in nature.

They reach about 12–14 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 125 gallons. Provide ample live rock for hiding, open swimming space, and a sandy substrate, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since puffers can be prone to jumping.

Diet should consist of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, clam, krill, snails, crabs, and other shelled invertebrates to help wear down their continuously growing teeth. With proper care, this fish makes a striking, charismatic, and interactive addition to a large marine aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.