Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: With Caution
General Description: The Saddle Sharpnose Puffer, also known as the Coronata or Crowned Puffer, is found throughout the Indo-Pacific and Hawaii. All members of Canthigaster are frequently referred to as tobies rather than puffers. While it has a large natural distribution, this species is infrequently seen in the aquarium trade compared to other Canthigaster tobies. Reaching a maximum size of approximately 4″, these puffers are sought after as an alternative to larger (10″+) puffer species for the aquarium. The Saddle puffer has several dark brown bands across its midsection that are outlined in blue, with faint or pronounced orange spots across its body. Most similar to the Valentini Puffer (Canthigaster valentini), but the Valentini has a yellow caudal fin and its two middle brown bands extend beyond the base of the pectoral fins. The Saddle puffer 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 Saddle puffers are predominately 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, Saddle puffers should not be kept with overly boisterous or aggressive species. A Saddle 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. Saddle 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: 1″ to 2″; Medium: 2″ to 3″; Large: 3″ to 4″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
