Fin's Fish Guide
The Pelagic porcupinefish (Diodon eydouxii) is a saltwater fish of the family Diodontidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
The pelagic porcupinefish is a porcupinefish that occurs in the open water of all tropical oceans. The species grows to about 27 cm and has a body set with long spines and can inflate with water into a spiny ball. It swims in schools in open water and eats larger zooplankton and fish larvae. Like other porcupinefishes and puffers its body contains the nerve poison tetrodotoxin; the flesh is poisonous to eat. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pelagic porcupinefish?
The Pelagic porcupinefish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Long spines; can inflate itself; contains tetrodotoxin
Where does the Pelagic porcupinefish live?
The Pelagic porcupinefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Worldwide (tropical, pelagic)
How big does the Pelagic porcupinefish get?
The Pelagic porcupinefish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Pelagic porcupinefish dangerous to humans?
The Pelagic porcupinefish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Do not eat: the body contains tetrodotoxin, a deadly nerve poison with no antidote. Poisoning causes tingling, paralysis and breathing failure. If swallowed, call emergency services immediately and support breathing until medical help arrives.
Is the Pelagic porcupinefish edible?
The Pelagic porcupinefish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Diodon
More from the family Diodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Pelagic porcupinefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pelagic porcupinefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.