Arothron Puffer (Arothron meleagris)

Fish in the family Tetraodontidae. Moderate care. Not Reef Safe.

Quick facts

Scientific nameArothron meleagris

FamilyTetraodontidae

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietomnivore

Adult size10 in

Minimum tank size75 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025

Feeding schedule1-2 times daily

Appearance

A stocky, rounded pufferfish with a smooth body typically spotted or mottled in shades of brown, tan, and white. The body can inflate when threatened, and the fish features small eyes and a pronounced mouth.

Diet and feeding

Arothron meleagris is an opportunistic omnivore. Feed a varied diet of meaty foods (mysis shrimp, chopped squid, fish flesh) supplemented with crustaceans and occasional vegetables. Feed 2–3 times daily for juveniles, reducing to once daily for larger adults.

Difficulty and care for the Arothron Puffer

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region from East Africa and the Red Sea through Southeast Asia to the central Pacific.

Log Arothron Puffer in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Arothron Puffer alongside everything else in your reef.

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