Reticulated Puffer

The Reticulated Puffer is a large and distinctive member of the Arothron genus, recognized by the intricate reticulated or net-like pattern of dark brown to black lines covering its greyish-brown body. Like all pufferfish, it possesses the ability to inflate itself by swallowing water or air when threatened, dramatically increasing its apparent size to deter predators. Its fused beak-like teeth, formed from modified jaw plates, are powerful enough to crush the shells of crustaceans, mollusks, and sea urchins.

In the wild, Arothron reticularis is found throughout the Indo-Pacific, from the Indian Ocean through Indonesia and the Philippines to the Western Pacific. It inhabits a variety of environments including coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove estuaries, and even brackish waters, making it one of the more adaptable pufferfish species. Adults can reach 26 inches in length, making this a substantial species that requires significant aquarium space.

In the aquarium, the Reticulated Puffer is a hardy and personable fish that quickly recognizes its keeper and begs enthusiastically for food. It adapts well to captive life and readily accepts a wide variety of frozen and prepared foods. However, it is absolutely not reef-safe and will consume corals, clams, crustaceans, and virtually any invertebrate. Its large adult size requires a minimum of 250 gallons, and it should be housed in a fish-only setup with robust tankmates that can tolerate its semi-aggressive personality.