Figure-Eight Puffer (Dichotomyctere ocellatus)

Fish in the family Tetraodontidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Figure-Eight Puffer

Quick facts

Scientific nameDichotomyctere ocellatus
FamilyTetraodontidae
Also known asEyespot Puffer, Figure 8 Puffer
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size3 in
Minimum tank size15 gallons
Water parametersTemp 74-82°F, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 9-20 dGH

Appearance

Rounded green-and-brown body with yellow figure-eight and ocellus markings on the back, a white belly, and a small beak of fused teeth.

Difficulty and care for the Figure-Eight Puffer

Hard

Origin and habitat

Southeast Asia (estuaries)

Keeper notes

A small but feisty puffer that nips fins and eats shrimp and snails; can be territorial and is best kept alone or with great caution. Tolerates fresh water but does best in low-end brackish conditions. Beak needs wearing down with hard-shelled prey.

Log Figure-Eight 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 Figure-Eight Puffer alongside everything else in your reef.