More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 2000 litres / 528.34 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 50.0cm / 19.69inches |
| Reef Compatible | Not reef safe |
| Temperament | Mostly peaceful but 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 Arothron Puffer, also known as White-spotted balloon, Whitespotted pufferfish, Guineafowl puffer, or Guinea-fowl pufferfish, belongs to the Tetraodontidae family. These fish exhibit color changes in three phases of their life, showcasing variations of black with white spots, yellow/brown, or white/black markings. They can reach a maximum size of 50.0cm and are found in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Indonesia, and parts of the Pacific Ocean.
Aquarium Suitability
The Arothron Puffer is deemed suitable for aquariums with care. They have an average hardiness level and a temperament that is mostly peaceful, yet they may display aggressiveness towards similar species. It is recommended to handle these fish carefully during catching and transporting, as they have the ability to release toxins when stressed or dying, which can be harmful to the aquatic life within the aquarium.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
Pufferfish like the Arothron Puffer are known for their unique swimming style, interesting personality, and ability to puff up when threatened. While not generally reef-safe, they are quite hardy and can live for many years under proper conditions. It is essential to provide adequate food that grinds their teeth, as their teeth continue to grow throughout their lives. Suitable foods include snails, mussels, and a variety of seafood and frozen foods.
Reef Suitability
The Arothron Puffer is classified as not reef-safe, as they tend to nibble at the fins of other fish and may pose a threat to various invertebrates within a reef environment.
Aquarium Setup
To house Arothron Puffers, a minimum tank size of 2000 liters is recommended. The water conditions should have a dKH of 8-12, pH of 8.1-8.4, specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C. Their diet should consist of larger crustaceans, other invertebrates, and small crustaceans like shrimp, crabs, krill, and artemia.
Behaviour
These fish exhibit a fun and interesting personality, although caution should be taken with handling and transportation due to their ability to release toxins in stressful situations.
Feeding and Diet
Arothron Puffers require a diet that helps prevent their teeth from overgrowing, such as clams. Care should be taken to ensure their teeth do not become too long, as grinding them down can be a stressful procedure for the fish.
Dimorphism
The Arothron Puffer does not exhibit significant dimorphism, and in captivity, breeding and reproduction are not commonly observed due to their demanding care requirements.
Habitat and Distribution
Originating from the Indo-Pacific region, Arothron Puffers are found from East Africa south to Durban, South Africa, and east to the Ryukyu Islands and Panama, extending north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to Lord Howe and Easter Islands. In the Eastern Pacific, they are located from Guaymas, Mexico, to Ecuador.