Valentini Puffer Fish (Canthigaster Valentini)

Species Name : Canthigaster Valentini

Care Level : Moderate

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Black, Blue, Orange, Tan, Yellow

Diet : Omnivore

Reef Compatible : With Caution

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 4"

Origin : Indonesia, Sumatra

Family : Tetraodontidae

Minimum Tank Size : 30 gallons

The Valentini Puffer Fish (Canthigaster Valentini), also known as the Saddled Puffer or Black Saddled Toby, is a demersal marine fish belonging to the family Tetraodontidae.

Like the other members of this species, the Valentini puffer has an elongated, beak-like snout. The Valentini puffer features a cream base color with faded spotting and a yellow tail fin. They also sport dark brown vertical markings on the body that are broadest on the back: the ‘saddle’ they are also named for. It lacks pelvic fins, but has learned to use the pectoral fins to move about the aquarium. It has the ability, when threatened or alarmed, to inflate its body to almost twice its normal size. Parts of its flesh are poisonous.

A 30 gallon or larger, fish-only aquarium is suitable. When trying to keep Puffers with other fishes, it is essential to provide plenty of space, hiding holes and decorations that will allow your Puffer to create its own territory.

The Valentini Puffer is peaceful in nature and should get along with pretty much any fish, as long as the proper space is provided. The Valentini Puffer is not at all considered reef safe, as it tends to nip over the corals, smaller Inverts such as Shrimp and has even been known to nip at other fishes fins.

The Valentini Puffer is omnivore and can be fed with vitamin-enriched Shrimp, chopped Cockle, Squid, Clam, as well as vegetable matter, and green filamentous algae and Spirulina for continued health. You should also offer hard shelled Shrimp to wear down their ever growing teeth. 

 Size: Small; 1" to 2" Medium; 2" to 3" Large; 3" to 4"