Puffer | Figure 8 Puffer (Tetraodon biocellatus)

The Figure 8 Puffer, scientifically known as Tetraodon biocellatus, is a highly intelligent, interactive pufferfish recognized by the distinct figure 8 pattern on its back. Curious and full of personality, this species often watches and responds to its keeper.

Figure 8 Puffers are brackish-water fish and require specific water conditions to thrive long term. While small in size, they have big personalities and are best suited for species-only or carefully planned brackish aquariums.

⚠️ Not a community fish. Not freshwater long-term.

Key Characteristics

Distinct figure-eight body markings
Extremely intelligent and interactive
Small-growing puffer species
Long lifespan with proper care
Best kept singly or in species setups

Care Requirements

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Adult Size: ~3 inches
• Tank Size: 1520 gallons (single)
• Temperature: 7582°F
• pH: 7.58.5
• Water Type: Brackish (low salinity)
• Diet: Carnivore (snails, crustaceans, frozen foods)

🧂 Requires marine salt mix NOT freshwater salt.

Tank Setup Recommendations

• Brackish aquarium with marine salt mix
• Specific gravity: ~1.0051.010
• Strong filtration (messy eaters)
• Sand substrate preferred
• Rocks, caves, and visual barriers

🦷 Hard foods are required to wear down their continuously growing teeth.

Tank Compatibility

Best Options:

• Species-only tank
• Very carefully selected brackish tankmates (advanced only)

Avoid:

• Freshwater community fish
• Shrimp & snails (will be eaten)
• Other puffers in small tanks

⚠️ Aggression increases with age and poor tank design.

Feeding & Dental Care

Recommended foods:

• Snails (essential)
• Frozen bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Chopped shrimp or clam

🦷 Without hard foods, puffers can develop overgrown teeth, requiring intervention.

Ideal For

• Species-only aquariums
• Brackish water setups
• Experienced aquarists
• Pufferfish enthusiasts
• Interactive display tanks

Product Details

• Common Name: Figure 8 Puffer
• Scientific Name: Tetraodon biocellatus
• Origin: Southeast Asia
• Aquarium Type: Brackish
• Diet: Carnivore
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive

FAQs Figure 8 Puffer

Q: Can Figure 8 Puffers live in freshwater?
A: Juveniles may tolerate freshwater short-term, but long-term brackish water is required.

Q: Are they good for beginners?
A: No. They require specific care and diet.

Q: Can they live with other fish?
A: Sometimes, but species-only tanks are strongly recommended.

Q: Do they puff up often?
A: Rarely in captivitypuffing is a stress response and should not be encouraged.

Q: Do they recognize their owner?
A: Yes! They are known to recognize and interact with their keepers.

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