Immaculate pufferfish

Fish Size: 3-4in

The Immaculate Puffer (Arothron immaculatus), sometimes called the yellow-eyed puffer, is a robust Indo-Pacific species found over sandy flats, seagrass beds, and lagoon edges from East Africa to Micronesia. Adults reach 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) and cruise the substrate hunting crabs, snails, worms, and clams. In captivity, plan a 125–180+ gallon FOWLR aquarium with fine sand, strong biological filtration, and open swimming lanes. Ideal parameters: SG 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, 74–80°F (23–27°C), low nitrate, high oxygen. Provide caves for security and a tight lid (they’re inquisitive).

Never force a puffer to inflate, and handle with care—like many puffers, they can contain tetrodotoxin.

This species is not reef safe and will eat most invertebrates, but it coexists with larger, peaceful fish (tangs, angels, rabbits) when given space.

Feed a varied, meaty diet—whole clams on the half shell, mussels, shrimp, krill, squid, crab legs—plus quality marine pellets to keep nutrition balanced and the beak naturally worn. Expect an alert, high-intelligence fish that recognizes its keeper and begs at the glass.