Common name: Map puffer
General information
The Map Pufferfish, scientifically known as Arothron mappa, is a unique and intriguing species that adds a touch of personality to any marine aquarium. This species is known for its distinctive, map-like patterns on its body, which vary in color from yellow to brown with dark scribbles and lines. The Map Pufferfish is a member of the Tetraodontidae family, which includes other pufferfish species known for their ability to inflate their bodies as a defense mechanism against predators.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 500 liter (130 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 65 cm (2′2″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers meaty foods, shrimps.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at inverts, corals.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial.
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPufferfishTetraodontiformes
- FamilyPufferfishTetraodontidae
- GenusPufferfishArothron
- SpeciesMap pufferArothron mappa (Lesson, 1831)
- SynonymsTetraodon mappa Lesson, 1831Tetrodon mappa Lesson, 1831
Care
Map Pufferfish require a spacious aquarium to accommodate their adult size, which can reach up to 65 centimeters (25 inches) in length. They are not reef-safe as they have a tendency to nip at and consume various invertebrates and some corals. A fish-only tank with plenty of hiding places and a sandy substrate is ideal. These puffers are sensitive to water quality, so regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential. They are omnivores, with a diet that should include a variety of meaty foods and some plant matter.
Reproduction
Reproduction of Map Pufferfish in the home aquarium is rare and not well-documented. In the wild, they exhibit courtship behaviors and the females lay eggs that are fertilized externally by the male. The care of the young is not parental; once the eggs are released and fertilized, the adults do not tend to them.
Habitat
Map Pufferfish are found in warm, tropical waters across the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer shallow, coastal areas and are often found in lagoons and on coral reefs. They can be found at depths ranging from 2 to 30 meters (6 to 98 feet), where they utilize their strong beak-like teeth to feed on benthic invertebrates.