Cyclichthys schoepfi, Family: Diodontidae (Porcupinefishes)
Also referred to as Spiney Boxfish, which is slightly in error as Boxfish are Family Ostraciidae, it should really be called a spiney puffer instead. Spines are thick and sturdy. Above striped black/brown wavy lines on green-brown, belly offwhite or golden yellow. Dark spots at dorsal and anal fine bases and above/behinde the pectoral fin base. Single tooth forming beakshaped mouth. No pelvic fins. Feeds on soft foods like bits of worm, small shrimp, etc. Found in shallow bay areas during summer, wintering in deeper waters. Ranges: Western Atlantic: from Nova Scotia (Canada), Maine (USA), Bahamas, and northern Gulf of Mexico to Brazil. Very uncommon north of the Carolinas, it was a surprise to catch this specimen. Puffs up just like our blowfish.
Top specimen courtesy of Tom Puzino.
Bottom specimen courtesy of John Kocinski.