Guide
to the Coastal Resources of Guam: Vol. 1
THE FISHES
Steven S. AMESBURY Robert F. MYERS
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DIODONTIDAE (PORCUPINE FISHES OR SPINY PUFFERS) Porcupinefishes are covered with dozens of long, sharp spines which become erect when their bodies are inflated, rendering them almost inedible. Only a few large predators such as the tiger shark and the moray eel Gymnothorax javanicus (P. 21,B) are known to feed on porcupinefishes more than a few inches in length.
The Spotted Porcupinefish is occasionally encountered near sandy areas of both protected and exposed reefs from 1 to at least 24 m. It is active at night but in the daytime may be found resting under ledges as well as out in the open. It feeds on heavily armored invertebrates, primarily gastropods and hermit crabs, as well as crabs and sea urchins, which are easily crushed in its powerful jaws. CIRCUMTROPICAL
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