Globefish

Diodon nicthemerus

Chordata – Osteichthyes

Distribution:     

Also referred to as a porcupinefish, the name certainly reflects this fish’s appearance with a body that can be inflated, causing the spines (which are modified scales) to stand erect. A globefish inflates its body by ingesting water or air, and as its body expands the spines lock into place – making the animal appear much bigger and acting as a deterrent to potential predators.

Globefish, beached Globfish underwater

Did you know?

The swim bladder of the porcupinefish may also be found washed up onto the beach – the inflated dried organ is sometimes referred to as a windbag.

Globefish bladder