Common name: Immaculate puffer

General information

The Immaculate Puffer, scientifically known as Arothron immaculatus, is a distinctive and charismatic species of pufferfish. It is known for its unique ability to inflate its body as a defense mechanism when threatened. This species has a relatively smooth and elongated body, with a coloration that ranges from a pale base with scattered dark spots to a more uniform yellowish or brownish hue.

Care

Arothron immaculatus requires a spacious aquarium to accommodate its potential growth and active swimming behavior. It is essential to provide a varied diet, including meaty foods like shrimp, squid, and clams, as well as some hard-shelled foods to help wear down their ever-growing teeth. Pufferfish are known to be curious and intelligent, often recognizing their caretakers.

Reproduction

In the wild, Immaculate Puffers are solitary and come together only to breed. Little is known about their breeding habits in the home aquarium, as breeding is rare in captivity. However, they are known to scatter their eggs in the substrate.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships, pufferfish like the Immaculate Puffer can play a role in the ecosystem by controlling populations of invertebrates and potentially cleaning parasites off other fish.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Immaculate Puffer includes reefs and lagoons in the Indo-Pacific region. They are often found in clear coastal to inner reefs, usually in sandy areas with access to seagrass beds where they can forage for food.