Sharpnose Puffer

The Sharpnose Puffer is a diminutive and charming member of the Canthigaster genus found throughout the Caribbean and Western Atlantic. This small pufferfish features a distinctive pointed snout, a dark brown to olive upper body with bright blue lines and spots on the face and lower body, and a prominent dark spot at the base of the dorsal fin. Its compact size of just 4.5 inches makes it one of the smallest pufferfish available to marine aquarists, and its curious, active personality has made it a perennial favorite.

In the wild, Canthigaster rostrata is one of the most common reef fish in the Caribbean, found on coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rubble zones from Florida and the Bahamas through the Caribbean to the coast of South America. It is often observed swimming in pairs or small groups, hovering just above the substrate as it picks at algae, sponges, tunicates, and small invertebrates. Despite its small size, it is territorial and will defend its home range from intruders.

In the aquarium, the Sharpnose Puffer is hardy, easy to feed, and highly entertaining. It quickly learns to recognize its keeper and will swim to the front of the tank at feeding time. It readily accepts frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and prepared foods. However, it is not reef-safe and will nip at corals, clam mantles, fan worms, and ornamental shrimp. Its small size means it can be kept in aquariums as small as 30 gallons, making it accessible to a wide range of hobbyists.