This preorder is an order on demand fish.  This fish is not in stock ready to ship.  After you order the fish, we will source and quarantine your fish for up to 14 days before shipping.  We want to make sure it's healthy to finish the trip.  This fish requires 21-28 Business Days from ordering to shipping.

Porcupine Puffer (Diodon holocanthus)

A Personality-Packed Marine Showpiece

Add charm and character to your aquarium with the Porcupine Puffer, also known as the Porcupinefish or Longspined Puffer. With its spiky silhouette, curious behavior, and almost “puppy-like” personality, this fish is more than just a display — it becomes part of the family.

Key Features

• Unique Look: Covered in spines and mottled with dark spots for a bold, exotic appearance.

• Interactive Nature: Recognizes its keeper, often begging for food or following you at the glass.

• Moderate Care: Hardy once acclimated, suitable for aquarists with some saltwater experience.

• Full of Character: Often compared to owning a pet — playful, intelligent, and memorable.

• Size: Reaches up to 12" at maturity, making it a substantial centerpiece fish.

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons or larger

• Water Parameters: 72–78 °F, pH 8.1–8.4, dKH 8–12, Specific Gravity 1.020–1.025

• Environment: Spacious, fish-only setup with sturdy aquascaping

• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe — will nip or consume invertebrates

Feeding & Care

Porcupine Puffers are omnivores with a taste for meaty foods such as squid, krill, clams, and hard-shelled shrimp. These tough foods provide essential nutrition while naturally filing down their continuously growing teeth. Feed a varied diet to ensure both health and dental care.

Why Choose the Porcupine Puffer?

The Porcupine Puffer isn’t just another fish — it’s an aquarium companion. With quirky habits, endearing interaction, and a hardy disposition, this species is perfect for aquarists who want both beauty and personality in their marine setup.