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[edit]

Very difficult to sex visually.


Tank compatibility[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

An aggressive active predator.


Identification[edit]

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[edit]

External links[edit]