Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Live Plant Safe: With Caution
General Description: The Figure 8 Puffer inhabits rivers and coastal waters throughout Cambodia, Malaysia and Indonesia. Found in both freshwater and brackish water environments, the Figure 8 puffer is full of personality when either of these environments are provided properly. This pufferfish is identified by the figure eight pattern on its dorsal side and a white belly. Growing to an adult size of approximately 4″, the Figure 8 puffer is a very manageable freshwater puffer species. However, pufferfish have demanding dietary requirements and limited compatability with other fish species.
Diet Requirements: In the wild Figure 8 puffers are carnivores. A diet made up of various high quality frozen foods is necessary, including bloodworms, brine shrimp and pieces of mussel or clam. Puffers should also be regularly given snails to ensure their teeth do not become overgrown, which can cause health complications. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your puffer.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 30 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single Figure 8 puffer. Puffers are intolerable of nitrite or ammonia spikes. Biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters favorable (Nitrates < 30 ppm), as they cannot withstand deteriorating water conditions. Depending on whether you keep your Figure 8 puffer in freshwater (with aquarium salt) or a brackish environment (using marine salt), will determine the aquascape of your aquarium. Figure 8 puffers thrive in densely live planted aquariums, but this can only be achieved in a freshwater setting with minimal aquarium salt. Mangroves are an exception that can tolerate freshwater to brackish water conditions. Aquascaping with driftwood and other natural-looking arrangements will provide security to this puffer. Mixing a Figure 8 puffer in a community tank can be challenging given their nippy behavior. Puffers are best kept with quick-moving species, such as certain tetra, danios or barbs. Avoid slow-moving fish or fish with decorative fins. Do not keep more than one Figure 8 puffer in an aquarium. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 4-10, pH 6.5-7.5.
Purchase Size:Â Medium: 1” to 1-1/4”
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
