Threebar Porcupinefish
Dicotylichthys punctulatus
Threebar Porcupinefish is a small pufferfish of shallow tropical Indo-Pacific waters, recognized for its three dark bars and spotted body. Like other porcupinefish it inflates when threatened and is not a common angling target.
Identification points
- Three bold dark bars across the body
- Pale body covered in many small dark spots
- Rounded porcupinefish shape with erectable spines and a small beak-like mouth
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, lagoons, seagrass beds, and protected coastal flats in tropical marine waters; usually near cover in clear, warm water.
Bait notes
Not a targeted game fish. If caught incidentally, small bits of shrimp, squid, clam, or cut bait may hook it on light tackle near reef or flat edges.
Behavior
Slow-moving and wary, it feeds on hard-shelled invertebrates such as mollusks and crustaceans, using strong beak-like teeth. It tends to hover near bottom structure and inflates when handled or stressed.
Caution
Do not eat unless you have expert local confirmation; pufferfish and porcupinefish can contain tetrodotoxin and are potentially lethal. The body inflates and the skin has sharp spines, so use caution handling.
Fishing notes
Most encounters are bycatch on bottom or near-structure rigs in shallow water. Handle carefully, use a landing net or tools, and avoid keeping it inflated; release promptly if not retained for identification.