Glossary:
One of the more distinctive saltwater fish is the dogface pufferfish (Arothron nigropunctatus), or dogface puffer. Although one of the pricier fish out there because of its potential size and other factors, it’s a popular option for the entertainment value it can bring to a tank.
Not sure if the Dogface puffer is right for your tank? This Dogface pufferfish care guide will help you better determine whether this fish will be a good addition to your aquarium.
The Dogface pufferfish is somewhat reef-safe, but it naturally feeds on invertebrates, so you’ll want to exercise some caution when introducing it to a reef environment. It may nip your corals from time to time, but as long as it’s well-fed, this shouldn’t be as big of an issue.
In its natural environment, the Dogface pufferfish is a nocturnal hunter feasting on shrimp, sponges, mollusks, and other invertebrates. As such, you should feed your Dogface puffer fish a hearty meal of meaty foods, which can include raw clams, shrimp, mussels, and squid, among other meals. It’s often better to opt for foods with harder shells, as this will help grind down and prevent the overgrowth of the puffer’s teeth.
Be patient with your dogface puffer, too. It may be reluctant to feed when first introduced into your tank, but it will likely get over this shyness and begin eating more consistently.
The Dogface pufferfish needs a large tank to keep it satisfied, of at least 100 gallons. Keep in mind that these fish are large and can grow to around a foot long.
To ensure your Dogface pufferfish is comfortable, you should keep your tank’s temperature at around 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ideally, you should feed your Dogface pufferfish multiple times per day, but they’ll get by fine with one feeding per day in most cases. They will quickly grow if you feed them properly.
The price of the Dogface pufferfish varies greatly, depending on where you look. However, this fish is often on the pricier end of the scale.
We’ve found the Dogface pufferfish going for as low as $55, but most are on the market for around $100 to $150. Some even sell them for as much as $1,000. It all depends on the shop, the rarity, and the size of the fish, among other factors.
The following are some interesting facts about the dogface pufferfish you might not have known:
The Dogface pufferfish is as semi-aggressive fish, making it a compatible tank mate for non-aggressive or moderately aggressive fish species.
Some examples of tank mates it may get along with include:
Looking for Dogface pufferfish for sale? You can find this fish at the following fish shops:
If you have sufficient space, an ample budget, and the right conditions, you may get a lot of enjoyment out of a Dogface pufferfish in your saltwater aquarium.