The Spotted Porcupinefish (Diodon hystrix), known for its distinctive spiny body and ability to inflate when threatened, inhabits tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, especially around coral reefs. While not a primary commercial target due to its toxic flesh (containing tetrodotoxin), it is occasionally harvested as bycatch or for the ornamental and curio trade—its dried, inflated bodies are popular souvenirs. The top countries involved in the limited fishing and export of Spotted Porcupinefish include the Philippines, Indonesia, and some Caribbean nations such as the Bahamas and Jamaica. In these regions, small-scale fisheries and artisanal fishers collect porcupinefish, mainly to supply the demand for decorative items rather than for food, as consumption is rare and risky. Regulations regarding their harvest vary, with some countries implementing restrictions to protect reef ecosystems and prevent overexploitation.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.