Porcupine Puffer
Diodon holocanthus

Care Level




Reef Compatible


Plant Safe


Max Size

12" - 18"

Minimum Tank Size

150 gallon


Brown, White, Yellow



Water Conditions

Basic (8.2-8.5 pH), Salinity (1.02-1.025 specific gravity), High Water Hardness (10-15 dGH), 74-78 degrees Fahrenheit


General: The Porcupine Puffer (Diodon holocanthus) naturally occupy the shallow lagoons surrounding Southern Australia. The Porcupine Puffer will reach a length of over twelve inches, is not considered to be "reef safe", and should only be kept in an aquarium larger than 175 gallons. This Puffer is typically an opportunistic predator, targeting slower marine fish species, as well as crustaceans, anthozoans, and mullusks. The Porcupine Puffer may be used to "cycle" a new aquarium, although it is important to consider this semi-aggressive fish being the final addition (for territorial purposes). The Porcupine Puffer should not be kept with another, as they will typically become aggressive towards each other.

Aquarium Diet: The Porcupine Puffer (Diodon holocanthus) is naturally an omnivore, primarily preying upon benthal (bottom dwelling) invertebrates such as coral, mussels, and crustaceans. The Porcupine Puffer may also be found grazing upon various macro algae species. It is often ideal to provide a balanced diet for omnivorous Puffers containing an algae species such as Spirulina, and chlorella. The Porcupine Puffer will typically act as a true companion, behaving in a very attentive manner when greeted.

Author: Aquatics Unlimited