Papuan Toby Puffer (Canthigaster papua)

The Papuan Puffer may also be called the Blue Dot Toby or Blue Dot Sharp-nosed Puffer. Members of the Canthigastergenus are called Sharp-nosed Puffers or Tobies. The Papuan Toby Puffer Canthigaster papua and the Blue Spotted Puffer Canthigaster solandri have very similar characteristics. The most distinguishing feature of the Papuan Toby Puffer Canthigaster papua is the orange coloration around its mouth area. It lacks pelvic fins, but has learned to use the pectoral fins to move about the aquarium.

A 50 gallon or larger, fish-only aquarium is suitable. It may be aggressive at times, nipping the fins of tank mates, leaving a circular hole as its mark. Its teeth are actually a fused beak-like structure. It will eat invertebrates found in a reef tank. It becomes alarmed when in a net, therefore, use a container to transfer it.

The diet of the Papuan Toby Puffer needs a varied diet of meaty foods including; squid, krill, clams, and hard shelled shrimp to help wear down their ever growing teeth.

Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2" to 2" Medium: 2" - 3" Large: 3" - 4" Pair: 2" to 4"