Tyler Toby

The Tyler Toby is a small and rarely seen member of the Canthigaster genus, prized by collectors for its delicate beauty and scarcity in the aquarium trade. This diminutive pufferfish reaches only about 3 inches in length, making it one of the smallest puffers available to marine hobbyists. Its body features an attractive pattern of small dark spots scattered across a light tan to pinkish-brown base, with subtle blue lines and markings on the face that are characteristic of the Canthigaster genus. The overall impression is of a dainty, jewel-like pufferfish.

In the wild, Canthigaster tyleri is found in the Western Pacific, from Indonesia and the Philippines to Fiji and Tonga. It inhabits outer reef slopes and drop-offs at moderate depths, typically between 15 and 50 meters, which contributes to its rarity in the aquarium trade since collection at these depths is more challenging and expensive. It is found near coral rubble and small caves, where it picks at sponges, tunicates, and small invertebrates.

In the aquarium, the Tyler Toby is a peaceful and undemanding species when it can be obtained. Its tiny size allows it to thrive in tanks as small as 30 gallons, and it readily accepts frozen and prepared foods. Like other tobies, it is not considered reef-safe as it may nip at coral polyps and will eat small ornamental invertebrates. Its rarity and deep-water origin make it a coveted species among puffer enthusiasts, and specimens command premium prices when they appear in the trade.