Immaculatus Puffer

Details

Scientific Name: Arothron immaculatus
Family: Tetraodontidae
Color: black, white

Fish Care

Fish Diet: Carnivore
Aggressiveness: Caution Needed
Reef Safe: No
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gal
Max Size: 12"
Relative Care: Easy

Description


The Immaculatus Puffer captures the essence of the specialized nature of puffers. Classic and elegant in design, the Immaculatus Puffer has a large, pillowy body that is predominately milky white with neutral overtones of varying shades of tan and brown. Unexpected bursts of yellow highlight the large paddle-like caudal fin, mouth and eyes of the Immaculatus Puffer. This simple yet bold color combination gives the Immaculatus Puffer a sophisticated and exotic presence. In this sense, one may argue that the Immaculatus Puffer shares a striking resemblance to Cockatoos. It is reputed that the Immaculatus Puffer can alter from its blemish-free appearance to a blotchy, mottled appearance depending on its mood and circumstance. The Immaculatus Puffer is an exceptional fish sure to make an endearing addition for puffer enthusiasts or anyone wanting personality in their larger, fish-only or fish-only-with-live-rock marine aquarium.

Members of genus Arothron, including the Immaculatus Puffer are sometimes called “Fat Puffers” and exemplify the typical puffer design. Though lacking pelvic fins and a hydrodynamic body shape, puffers are extremely maneuverable and are tenacious and capable predators. Like many “Fat Puffers,” the Immaculatus Puffer displays an unusual degree of “intelligence” and “personality” and appear to quickly recognize their owners.

In the wild, the Immaculatus Puffer inhabits a wide range of habitats including mangrove swamps, sea grass beds and reef flats. The ideal setup should be an established aquarium 125 gallon or larger with good filtration and a protein skimmer. Aquascape liberally with live rock and other materials to create an environment rich with nooks and crannies, caves and overhangs while preserving easy access to large open areas. House with fish of similar size and temperament and be aware that the Immaculatus Puffer will eat invertebrates found in the aquarium using its fused beak-like teeth to crush open its prey.

The diet of the Immaculatus Puffer should include a variety of meaty food including squid, krill, clams, and hard shelled shrimp to help wear down their ever growing teeth.