More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 300 litres / 79.25 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 11.0cm / 4.33inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with luck |
| Temperament | Might be aggressive towards similar species |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description:
The False puffer, also known as the Mimic filefish, Mimic leatherjacket, Black-saddled leatherjacket, and Blacksaddle mimic, belongs to the Monacanthidae family. This species mimics the Canthigaster valentini, distinguished by having two dorsal fins compared to the toby's single dorsal fin.
Aquarium Suitability:
The False puffer is considered suitable for aquariums; however, it may not be the best choice for coral tanks due to its occasional consumption of corals or invertebrates. This species can be utilized to combat glass anemones such as Aiptasia and Majano anemones. It is essential to provide a peaceful environment during acclimatization to tank life and use caution when handling to prevent entanglement in nets.
Demands:
With an average level of hardiness, the False puffer requires a minimum tank size of 300 liters. It is crucial to note the species' docile nature, making it vulnerable to more aggressive tank mates. Regular feedings, several times a day, are necessary to sustain this species, especially when newly introduced.
Care and Hardiness:
The False puffer, with a maximum size of 11.0 cm, prefers hiding spots within live rocks for shelter. Additionally, this species is reef safe when well-fed, as it may resort to nibbling on soft coral and LPS in the absence of sufficient food.
Reef Suitability:
Considered reef safe with caution, the False puffer poses minimal risks to coral and other invertebrates in a well-fed environment.
Aquarium Setup:
When setting up an aquarium for the False puffer, ensure water conditions are monitored within the following ranges: 8-12 dKH for KH, 8.1-8.4 for pH, 1.020-1.025 for specific gravity, and a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C. Providing macroalgae, microalgae, and small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia can fulfill the recommended diet requirements.
Behaviour:
The False puffer may exhibit aggression towards similar species, emphasizing the need for careful consideration when selecting tank mates.
Feeding and Diet:
Feeding the False puffer multiple times a day, with a diverse diet including macroalgae, microalgae, and small crustaceans, is essential for its nutritional requirements.
Habitat and Distribution:
Indigenous to the Indo-Pacific region, the False puffer can be found in waters ranging from East Africa to Aliwal Shoal, South Africa, extending eastward to Fiji, southern Japan, and as far south as the southern Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia. Recently, the species has also been recorded in Tonga.