Common name: Pufferfish
General information
The Pearl Toby, also known as the Margarita Puffer or Reticulated Puffer, is a small and colorful species of pufferfish that is popular among marine aquarium enthusiasts. Canthigaster margaritata is known for its distinctive reticulated pattern and the ability to inflate its body as a defense mechanism when threatened. Despite their cute appearance, they possess a potent neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin in their skin and organs, making them less palatable to predators.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 10 cm (4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Sensitive to copper-based meds.
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. frozen foods.
- Social
- Pair Pairs are territorial.
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at inverts & corals.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial, may bully smaller fish.
- Captive bred
- Yes Bred in home aquariums.
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPufferfishTetraodontiformes
- FamilyPufferfishTetraodontidae
- GenusPufferfishCanthigaster
- SpeciesPufferfishCanthigaster margaritata (Rüppell, 1829)
- SynonymsTetraodon margaritatus Rüppell, 1829
Care
Pearl Tobies are relatively hardy and can adapt to life in captivity if provided with a well-established aquarium. They require a tank with plenty of hiding places and a stable environment to thrive. These fish are known to nip at the fins of other fish and invertebrates, so tankmates should be chosen with care. A varied diet that includes meaty foods and hard-shelled prey to wear down their ever-growing teeth is essential for their well-being.
Reproduction
In the wild, Pearl Tobies are solitary and come together only to breed. Little is known about their breeding habits in the wild, and captive breeding is rare. They are oviparous, with females laying eggs that are then fertilized by the male. The care of the eggs and larvae is not well documented.
Habitat
Canthigaster margaritata is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the central Pacific, including the Red Sea, Hawaii, and the Tuamotu Archipelago. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, usually at depths of 1 to 55 meters, where they can be seen swimming alone or in pairs.