Dog-faced Puffer Fish

These are such lively, inquisitive, intelligent fish.  If I were ever to make the switch over to a saltwater setup, a dog-faced puffer fish would be a must.  Just too unique and adorable to pass up!

They truly do behave in a dog-like fashion. 

The Specs

Scientific Name:  Arothron nigropunctatus

Maximum Size: up to 13"

Minimum Tank Size:  most sources say at least 75 gallons

Diet: Carnivorous; likes to eat a variety of chopped meats (fish, scallop, shrimp/krill, squid, clam)

Water Condition:  high water quality (SG 1.020 - 1.025, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Temp. 72 - 78° F)

Range:  Indo-Pacific

General Info:  This fish is suitable for a fish-only tank and  requires only moderate maintenance.  Provide invertebrates for it to eat to keep its teeth worn down.   The Dog-faced Puffer, when frightened or distressed may inflate to 2x its original size. Forcing this animal to repeatedly puff can result in death due to stress. Do not expose it to air when it is puffing up as ingestion of air is often difficult to expel.