Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: With Caution
General Description: The Leopard Puffer, also known as the Leopard Toby, is native to the Western Pacific including Christmas Island, Guam Islands and the Philippines. All members of Canthigaster are frequently referred to as tobies rather than puffers. Unlike many of the other Canthigaster species however, the Leopard puffer can be found at depths of 100 feet. This could be one reason as to why this species is so infrequently seen within the aquarium trade. Reaching a maximum size of approximately 3″, these puffers are sought after as an alternative to larger (10″+) puffer species for the aquarium. The Leopard puffer, as its name suggests, has many dark dots and dashes over its pearly white body. Leopard puffers can become alarmed and “puff” slightly when caught with a net; it is best to transfer these fish using a plastic container.
Diet Requirements: In the wild Leopard puffers are carnivorous. A diet consisting of various meaty frozen foods is necessary, such as brine shrimp, squid, mysis shrimp, and krill to maintain optimal health and color. Hard-shelled shrimp and clams are also highly encouraged to feed from time to time in order to keep their teeth worn down. Overgrown teeth will cause complications and have consequences.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 55 gallon aquarium is ideal. Puffers enjoy a variety of rock work and crevices to take refuge; this is necessary to make it feel secure and encourage more outgoing behavior, as they can be shy when initially introduced. Given their generally peaceful nature, Leopard puffers should not be kept with overly boisterous or aggressive species. A Leopard puffer is to be added “with caution” into a reef aquarium as they are expected to eat invertebrates that are part of the clean up crew given their diet. Leopard puffers are intolerable of each other; keep only one per aquarium. Mixing different Canthigaster species should also be approached with caution. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Small: 2″ or less; Medium: 2-1/4″ to 3″; Large: 3-1/4″ to 4″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
