Common name: pPygmy toby

General information

The Pygmy Toby, Canthigaster pygmaea, is a small and colorful pufferfish species that is a charming addition to the marine aquarium. This species is known for its diminutive size and distinctive patterning, which includes a combination of spots and stripes in varying shades of blue, green, and yellow. Despite their small size, Pygmy Tobies have a big personality and are known to be quite inquisitive in the aquarium setting.

Care

Pygmy Tobies are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a stable environment. These pufferfish are not as destructive to invertebrates as their larger relatives, but caution should still be exercised if housing them with sensitive species. They thrive on a varied diet that includes meaty foods such as frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small crustaceans.

Reproduction

In the wild, Canthigaster pygmaea engages in pair bonding and the female lays eggs that are guarded by the male until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and not commonly reported in the home aquarium due to their specific requirements and the difficulty in raising the larvae.

Habitat

The Pygmy Toby is found in the Western Pacific, from Japan to the Great Barrier Reef. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, often seen hovering near the substrate or amongst coral branches. They are adept at maneuvering through tight spaces and can be found at various depths, typically from shallow waters to about 25 meters deep.