Figure Eight Pufferfish (Dichotomyctere ocellatus)

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Figure Eight Pufferfish

Dichotomyctere ocellatus.jpg
Figure Eight Pufferfish

Dichotomyctere ocellatus

76 Litres (20 US G.)

5.1-7.6cm (2-3 ")

pH

7.8 - 8.3

24 -28 °C (75.2-82.4°F)

8-18 °d

2:3 M:F

Carnivore
Live Foods
Other (See article)

5-15 years

Family

Tetraodontidae



Additional names

Figure Eight Pufferfish, Eyespot Pufferfish, F8 Puffer

Additional scientific names

Tetraodon biocellatus


Sexing

Very difficult to sex visually.


Tank compatibility

Best kept in species tanks as this fish can be aggressive and will fin-nip and attack tank mates. While young they may tolerate their own species but as they grow and mature this becomes less likely.


Diet

Must be fed with molluscs and snails in order to make sure the Puffer's beak will not become over-grown. Feed snails such as Ramshorn Snails and baby Apple Snails, can also be supplemented with Ghost Shrimp and bloodworms.


Feeding regime

Feed young specimen once a day. When they grow older and bigger to approx 10.2cm (4") only feed once every 2 or 3 days to prevent buildup of fats in the body.


Environment specifics

Although often marketed as a freshwater Puffer, this fish does best in brackish conditions with an SG of 1.005 - 1.008. Hiding places and dense decor is appreciated as these are curious fish. Can be transferred to either marine (saltwater) or freshwater environments after acclimatisation, but prefers low-end brackish conditions.
These are very messy fish so their tank should be mature, well filtered and spacious.


Behaviour

An aggressive active predator.


Identification

The markings on this fish can vary, they have a short rounded body with a white belly and the base colour of the top half varies from brown to yellow to green covered with yellow lines and dark spots with yellow outlines. Also there are a few black spots that are outlined in yellow on the tail, body and nose.

Pictures

External links