48. Diodon hystrix Linnaeus, 1758

Spot-fin porcupinefish (Figure 49)

Material examined: 1 ex.; 22.07.11; Shankarpur, Reg. No. MARC /ZSI/F3746 .

Description: D: 0, 14-17, A: 0, 14-16. Body globular cover with strong, long spines; two small spines on dorsal side of caudal peduncle. Body green brown dorsally with black spots; ventral side white without spots. Body robust; teeth united in each jaw but without a central division; body covered with long, sharp spines, folded backwards when body not inflated; 16 to 20 spines between snout and dorsal fin; dorsal region of caudal peduncle spiny; back, flanks and fins light brown with numerous dark spots; belly spiny.

Distribution: Circumtropical. Eastern Pacific, Western Atlantic, Eastern Atlantic, Western Indian Ocean.

Remarks: The fish has a minor commercial value. Ornamental. Poisonous.