Diodon nicthemerus Cuvier, 1818

Taxonomy

The slender-spined porcupine fish, also called globefish (Diodon nicthemerus Cuvier, 1818), is a porcupinefish belonging to the family Diodontidae.

Distribution Range

It is found in the waters of southern Australia, ranging as far north as Port Jackson to Geraldton, Western Australia.

Common Habitat Locations

It is most common in Port Phillip Bay and the coastal waters of Tasmania, where it inhabits shallow coastal waters and areas under manmade jetties.

Depth Range

This species occurs at depths between 1 and 70 meters (3 to 230 feet).

Similar Species Comparison

Diodon nicthemerus is similar in appearance and size to the three-bar porcupinefish (Dicotylichthys punctulatus), with both species reaching roughly 40 centimeters (15.7 inches) in total length.

Species Distinguishing Features

The two species can be distinguished from one another by their differences in patterning and morphology.

Behavior and Diet

Diodon nicthemerus is nocturnal, occasionally gathers in small groups, and feeds on invertebrates that live in the benthic zone.

Defense Mechanisms

It has slender yellow spines that it uses for defense against predators, and can inflate its body to make its sharp spines protrude when it feels alarmed.