Arothron Nigropunctatus - Dogface Puffer

$165.00

The Dogface Puffer is widely considered the ultimate "pet" fish of the marine world. Named for its remarkably canine-like facial structure and expressive eyes, this species is known for its high level of intelligence and interactive personality. In the "Answering Machine" era of saltwater husbandry, the Dogface Puffer is a hallmark of the large-scale fish-only system, valued for its ability to recognize its keepers and its playful, inquisitive nature.

Their bodies have a soft, velvet-like texture, and they can display a wide range of color phases—from earthy grays and browns to mottled blacks. This is a high-impact specimen that brings a sense of prehistoric wonder and genuine companionship to an aquarium. While they are slow-moving and generally peaceful with larger tank mates, their powerful jaws make them a dominant force in the water column.

Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.

Quick Specs

  • Care Level: Moderate

  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive

  • Minimum Tank Size: 125 Gallons

  • Diet: Carnivore

  • Reef Compatible: No

  • Max Size: 13 Inches

  • Water Conditions: 72 to 78°F, dKH 8 to 12, pH 8.1 to 8.4, sg 1.020 to 1.025

Husbandry Notes The Dogface Puffer is a messy eater with a high metabolism, requiring heavy-duty filtration and frequent water changes to maintain pristine conditions. Their teeth grow continuously throughout their lives; to prevent overgrowth, they must be fed hard-shelled foods such as clams on the half-shell, whole shrimp, and snails to naturally file down their beak. They are not reef safe and will quickly consume crustaceans and smaller fish. Provide plenty of open swimming space and large caves where they can retreat for security.

Expert Shipping & Logistics We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.

The Dogface Puffer is widely considered the ultimate "pet" fish of the marine world. Named for its remarkably canine-like facial structure and expressive eyes, this species is known for its high level of intelligence and interactive personality. In the "Answering Machine" era of saltwater husbandry, the Dogface Puffer is a hallmark of the large-scale fish-only system, valued for its ability to recognize its keepers and its playful, inquisitive nature.

Their bodies have a soft, velvet-like texture, and they can display a wide range of color phases—from earthy grays and browns to mottled blacks. This is a high-impact specimen that brings a sense of prehistoric wonder and genuine companionship to an aquarium. While they are slow-moving and generally peaceful with larger tank mates, their powerful jaws make them a dominant force in the water column.

Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.

Quick Specs

  • Care Level: Moderate

  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive

  • Minimum Tank Size: 125 Gallons

  • Diet: Carnivore

  • Reef Compatible: No

  • Max Size: 13 Inches

  • Water Conditions: 72 to 78°F, dKH 8 to 12, pH 8.1 to 8.4, sg 1.020 to 1.025

Husbandry Notes The Dogface Puffer is a messy eater with a high metabolism, requiring heavy-duty filtration and frequent water changes to maintain pristine conditions. Their teeth grow continuously throughout their lives; to prevent overgrowth, they must be fed hard-shelled foods such as clams on the half-shell, whole shrimp, and snails to naturally file down their beak. They are not reef safe and will quickly consume crustaceans and smaller fish. Provide plenty of open swimming space and large caves where they can retreat for security.

Expert Shipping & Logistics We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.