Reticulated Puffer (Arothron reticularis)

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

Quick facts

Scientific nameArothron reticularis

FamilyTetraodontidae

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyNot Reef Safe

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size12 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 medium-sized puffer with a tan to olive-brown body covered in a fine reticulated (net-like) pattern of darker lines. The body is robust and rounded, with small eyes and a small mouth designed for crushing hard-shelled prey.

Diet and feeding

Feed a varied diet of hard-shelled foods including snails, clams, sea urchins, and specialized puffer pellets. Crushing hard shells helps maintain their continuously growing beak. Feed 1–2 times daily.

Difficulty and care for the Reticulated Puffer

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

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa through Southeast Asia to the Philippines and Indonesia.

Log Reticulated 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 Reticulated Puffer alongside everything else in your reef.

Download Reef Trak See the full app