Dogface Pufferfish

(Arothron nigropunctatus)

Arothron Pufferfish are also known as Fat or Dogface Pufferfish. They should be added to well established large aquariums with plenty of room to swim. Puffers do "puff up" if they feel threatened. Plenty of rock work should be provided with caves, cracks and crevices. Arothron Puffers are not reef safe, they will disturb and will consume invertebrates. A varied diet of larger meaty foods including hard shell shrimp in order to wear down their teeth. Care will need to be taken when handling as Pufferfish tend to become quite alarmed, the use of a container is highly recommended. Pufferfish are intelligent and have a wonderful personality, they will make a great addition to large fish only aquariums.

Dogface Pufferfish are also sometimes known as the Black Spotted Pufferfish. Occasionally seen in the aquarium trade. Dogface Pufferfish may have a couple of different color phases throughout its life. They can be a gray with black marks around its mouth, eyes and dorsal with yellow pectoral fins, mostly gray color with a yellow belly with black spots or may be completely black, gold or orange color. Dogface Pufferfish can grow to almost 13".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 180 gallons or larger for this species.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.020 - 1.025, Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Alkalinity 8 - 12 dKH

  • Care: CareEasyEasy CareModerateModerate
  • Behavior: BehaviorAgressiveAgressive
  • Diet: DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food DietLive FoodLive Food
  • Habitat: HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightMediumMedium