Porcupinefish
The Pufferfish’s Larger Cousin
Not to be confused with its smaller cousin, the pufferfish, you can distinguish porcupinefish by their elongated bodies and large eyes. There are several species of porcupinefish within the Diodontidae family, all of which can inflate their bodies when provoked or threatened. They activate this unique defense mechanism by swallowing water or air to increase their size and cause the sharp spines covering their bodies to stand on end.
You can go diving with porcupinefish worldwide on shallow reefs in temperate and tropical waters. Porcupinefish are not only identifiable by their spine-covered bodies, but they are typically brownish-yellow in color and covered in small black spots with a white underbelly. Your best bet on encountering porcupinefish is on a coral or rocky reef or near caves, shipwrecks, or ledges. To discover where you can go diving with porcupinefish, explore the dive site map below.
Dive sites with this animal Show more on map
★★★★★ Aquarium / Lhohifushi Corner
This dive site is located right next to the island. The long reef ends into a corner of the canal. Here you can see several highlights. A very nice dive site for beginners as well as experienced divers.
★★★★★ USAT Liberty Wreck
This is the only historical shipwreck in Bali, ranked #3 in the world for Wreck diving! The wreck is 25 meters form shore at a depth of 4 to 29 meters below the surface with most of it occuring in a shallow area. This dive site does not have strong currents, has clear water, and warm temperatures. Difficult entry!
★★★★☆ Kani Corner
Kani Corner is basically a slope that goes to 25 - 30 m in a sandy bottom. There are some big blocks this deep and at the right time, mantas visit the blocks or pass by the top of the reef. The current can be strong so take caution.
★★★★☆ Colosseum
Colosseum is located on the west side of the island of Thulusdhoo. At the corner to the channel there is a large indentation in the form of a Roman amphitheatre at approx. 20m. This form is the epitome of the dive site and, at the same time, a meeting place for many marine creatures.
★★★★☆ Frederiksted Pier
One of the top macro dives anywhere! Scattered ruins and columns are coral encrusted and provide habitat for many types of shallow sea life. The pier is 1526ft/465m long so lots to discover with a gradual westerly decline. Perfect for snorkeling & non-certified divers too.
★★★★☆ King Cruiser
King Cruiser is rated as one of the best wreck dive sites in Asia, certainly Thailand. Having sank on May 4th in 1997 this is an amazing wreck dive sitting at over 30m, the top of the wreck is now around 18m. Suitable for Advanced and technical divers. Large Schools of fish and beautiful coral.