Pacific Crown Pufferfish

(Canthigaster axiologus)

Canthigaster Pufferfish are also known as Toby or Shortnose Pufferfish. They are a hardy, small and undemanding fish. They should be added to well established large aquariums with plenty of room to swim. Plenty of rock work, caves and crevices should be provided for hiding. Puffers do "puff up" if they feel threatened. Canthigaster Puffers are not reef safe, they will disturb and consume invertebrates, as well as nipping at stony corals. A varied diet of 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. Canthigaster Pufferfish will consume filamentous algae. House only one per aquarium.

Pacific Crown Pufferfish are also sometimes known as the Banded Sharpnose, Crowned Pufferfish, Barred Toadfish, Four Barred Toby or Striped Toby. Not often seen in the aquarium trade. Pacific Crown Pufferfish are very colorful with three brown saddles and bright blue and yellow spots or lines around the eye area. Pacific Crown Pufferfish can grow to almost 4".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 50 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: CareModerateModerate
  • Behavior: BehaviorAgressiveAgressive BehaviorSocialSocial
  • Diet: DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food DietHerbivoreHerbivore DietLive FoodLive Food
  • Habitat: HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightMediumMedium