Dogface Puffer (Arothron nigropunctatus)
Fish in the family Tetraodontidae. Expert care. Not Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
A stocky, rounded pufferfish with pale tan-to-yellow coloration and distinctive dark brown or black spots covering the head and body. The face is notably large and dog-like, which gives the species its common name.
Diet and feeding
Feed a varied diet of hard-shelled invertebrates (crustaceans, mollusks, sea urchins, snails) three to four times weekly. Supplement occasionally with chopped squid or fish. Their hard teeth continuously grow and require abrasion from crunching shells.
Difficulty and care for the Dogface Puffer
Moderate - Requires large tank and specialized diet. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial infections, Parasitic infestations, Overgrown teeth
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Great Barrier Reef and Samoa, typically found in reef areas and seagrass beds at depths of 1–50 meters.
Keeper notes
Will eat invertebrates and may nip at corals. Requires hard-shelled foods to prevent tooth overgrowth. Can be aggressive toward smaller fish.
Log Dogface 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 Dogface Puffer alongside everything else in your reef.
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