Tetraodon biocellatus, also known as the Figure Eight Puffer, is a small yet aggressive pufferfish, popular among aquarists due to its unique pattern and personality.
Overview
Tetraodon biocellatus, commonly known as the Figure Eight Puffer, is a distinctive freshwater pufferfish from the family Tetraodontidae. It gets its name from the figure-eight pattern seen on its back, making it a visually striking species.
These puffers are small, typically growing to 6-8 cm, and have a lifespan of 5-10 years in captivity. Although they are small in size, they are known for their aggression and need careful management in a home aquarium.
Tank Requirements
Tetraodon biocellatus thrives in water temperatures between 24-28°C, with a pH range of 7.0-8.0 and general hardness between 8-12 GH. Due to their active and somewhat aggressive nature, a tank size of at least 100 liters is recommended, with brackish water conditions preferred.
They need an environment with plenty of hiding spots, such as caves, driftwood, and plants, but care should be taken with plants, as puffers may nibble on them.
Feeding and Diet
Tetraodon biocellatus are carnivores, primarily eating invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, their diet should include hard-shelled foods like snails, shrimp, and crabs to help wear down their constantly growing teeth. You can also offer live or frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp.
A varied diet is important to ensure proper nutrition and dental health.
Care and Maintenance
Pufferfish like Tetraodon biocellatus require specific care due to their delicate nature and sharp teeth. It’s important to maintain pristine water conditions with regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters. They are sensitive to poor water quality, which can quickly lead to health issues.
Keep in mind their teeth will continue growing throughout their life, so providing foods that help file down their teeth is essential.
Compatibility
Due to their aggressive nature, Tetraodon biocellatus is best kept in a species-only tank or with very fast-moving fish that can avoid confrontation. They can be territorial, and care should be taken when introducing tank mates. Avoid keeping them with slow or long-finned fish, as they may nip at fins or attack smaller tankmates.
Breeding
Breeding Tetraodon biocellatus in captivity is very rare. In the wild, they lay eggs in hidden areas, with the male guarding the eggs until they hatch. Replicating these conditions in a home aquarium is challenging, and successful breeding is uncommon without specialized setups.