Freckled Dogface Pufferfish (Dogface Puffer, Arothron sp.) is a true “pet fish” in the marine world—chunky, curious, and packed with personality. Known for its freckled patterning, big expressive eyes, and bold interactions at the glass, this puffer quickly becomes the centrepiece of a display tank. They’re intelligent, learn feeding routines fast, and often recognise their keeper, making them one of the most engaging fish you can own.
This species needs a large, stable aquarium with excellent filtration and plenty of swimming room. Puffers are messy eaters and produce a heavy bioload, so oversize your skimmer and keep up with regular maintenance. Provide rockwork and caves for security, but leave open areas for cruising. Consistent water quality is critical—keep ammonia/nitrite at zero, maintain low nitrate, and ensure strong oxygenation and flow without blasting the fish constantly.
Feeding is where dogface puffers really shine—and where you need to be disciplined. Offer a varied meaty diet: quality frozen foods (mysis, prawn, squid, clam), marine pellets formulated for carnivores, and hard-shelled foods (e.g., clam-on-half-shell, cockle, mussel) to help wear down their continuously growing teeth. Feed smaller portions 1–2 times daily, remove leftovers promptly, and rotate foods to avoid nutritional gaps and fatty degeneration over time.
Temperament-wise, dogface puffers are generally semi-peaceful but opportunistic, and tankmate choice matters. Avoid housing them with timid fish that can be harassed, and never mix them with species likely to nip fins (or be nipped). They may bite if crowded, stressed, or competing for food. Most importantly: they are not safe with most invertebrates—snails, crabs, shrimp, and many other clean-up crew members can be viewed as snacks.
Reef compatibility is not recommended for a typical coral-and-invert reef system. While some individuals may ignore certain corals, many puffers will sample fleshy LPS and will often consume or damage invertebrates, making them best suited to a fish-only with live rock (FOWLR) or a carefully planned display tank. If you want an interactive, character-filled show fish and you’re set up for the feeding and filtration demands, the Freckled Dogface Puffer is an absolute standout.
Suitable only for aquariums 850L or larger. This will strictly be enforced.


