Common name: Clown toado

General information

The Harlequin Tuskfish, Canthigaster callisterna, is a vibrant and colorful species popular among marine aquarium enthusiasts. Known for its striking blue and orange stripes, interspersed with bold black markings, this species adds a splash of color and personality to any tank. It is a member of the family Tetraodontidae, which includes pufferfish and filefish.

Native to the Western Pacific Ocean, the Harlequin Tuskfish is a solitary creature in the wild, often found lurking around reefs and rocky outcrops. It has a set of sharp blue 'tusk-like' teeth that are not only distinctive in appearance but also serve a functional purpose in its diet of hard-shelled invertebrates.

Care

Harlequin Tuskfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding places and room to swim. They are generally hardy but should be kept in a well-maintained tank with stable water conditions. This species can be aggressive towards smaller tank mates, so careful consideration should be given when selecting companions. They are carnivorous and thrive on a varied diet that includes meaty foods like shrimp, squid, and clams.

Reproduction

In the aquarium setting, breeding Harlequin Tuskfish is quite rare. In the wild, they are known to be pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic before settling down to the reef.

Habitat

The Harlequin Tuskfish is found in the Western Pacific, from Australia to Japan, inhabiting coral reefs and rocky areas at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 25 meters. They prefer environments with plenty of crevices and overhangs to provide shelter and hunting grounds.