FIGURE 8 PUFFER

Figure 8 Puffer (Tetraodon biocellatus), also known as the Two-Spot Puffer or the Spotted Puffer, is a small and intriguing species of freshwater pufferfish known for its distinctive markings and playful behavior. They are often sought after for their unique appearance and personality but require specific care to thrive. Here’s a comprehensive care guide for keeping a Figure 8 Puffer:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a single Figure 8 Puffer. A larger tank (30 gallons or more) is preferable, especially if keeping more than one or if they are housed with other species.
• Aquascape: Provide a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and large plants. Figure 8 Puffers appreciate a complex environment where they can explore and find hiding places.
• Substrate: A soft substrate like sand or fine gravel is ideal. Avoid sharp or rough substrates that could damage the puffer's sensitive belly.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. Bright lighting is not necessary and can cause stress, so aim for a more subdued lighting setup.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Figure 8 Puffers prefer warmer water temperatures between 75-82°F (24-28°C). Use a reliable heater to maintain a stable temperature within this range.
• pH: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Consistency in pH is important for their health.
• Hardness: They can adapt to a range of water hardness but prefer moderate hardness, with a general hardness (GH) of 8-12 dGH.
• Water Quality: Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes (20-30% weekly). Ensure ammonia and nitrite levels are at 0 ppm and keep nitrates below 20 ppm. Use a high-quality water conditioner to treat tap water before adding it to the tank.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: Use a filtration system that provides both mechanical and biological filtration. A hang-on-back (HOB) filter or a canister filter works well. Ensure the filter provides gentle water movement.
• Water Flow: Moderate water flow is ideal. Avoid strong currents as Figure 8 Puffers prefer calm waters. Adjust the filter output to create a gentle circulation.

Feeding

• Diet: Figure 8 Puffers are carnivorous and have strong beaks designed to crush hard-shelled prey. Their diet should consist mainly of snails, crustaceans, and other shelled foods. They will also eat high-quality frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
• Variety: Offering a varied diet is essential to prevent nutritional deficiencies and stimulate natural hunting behavior. Live foods like snails and shrimp are particularly important for their beak health.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice a day, providing only as much food as they can consume in a few minutes to avoid overfeeding and water quality issues.