Common & Latin Name: Figure Of 8 Pufferfish (Dichotomyctere biocellatus)
Care level: Easy
Max Size: 8cm
Temp: 22-26°C
PH: 7.2-8.2
Approximate purchase size: 3-4cm
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: Non-Community
The Figure of 8 Pufferfish is an active, endearing species typically kept in brackish conditions. They are best kept in a species only set up, but some aquarists have enjoyed success in keeping them with other short finned, fast fish. The environment they need to be kept in is a much debated topic with many suggesting fresh water, whilst others believe they should be kept in brackish water or even marine. The only thing that is known for certain is that they must have hard, alkaline conditions and that older specimens do need to have salt in their water.
The aquarium should be spacious and planted with plenty of rocks to create a stimulating environment and offer hiding places. An open swimming area should also be available. Several specimens can be kept together, but they should be introduced at the same time and be roughly the same size with large amounts of space available. In smaller aquariums, they're likely to nip at each other.
This is a messy species due to their meat based diet and powerful filtration is a must, alongside regular partial water changes.
As with all puffers, they have a tendency to inflate when frightened and should never be provoked to do so. They should also not be lifted out of the water as they may fill themselves with air, which could lead to death.
Food should be offered in the form of fresh or frozen fish foods, snails and other meaty foods like shrimp.
If you have any questions about keeping this fish, please contact us and a member of our friendly store team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions
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