Yellow Belly Dogface Puffer (Arothron nigropunctatus)
Max Size: 1 foot 1 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: No
Minimum Tank Size: 150 gallons
The Yellowbelly dogface puffer, also known as the Golden Perch, Callop, and Murray perch, is a captivating addition to any home aquarium. Thriving in a moderate temperature range, this species is primarily carnivorous, preying on shrimp, molluscs, and smaller fish. However, caution is advised when handling the Yellowbelly dogface puffer, as it possesses razor-sharp plates around the gill plates that can cause painful wounds upon contact. Additionally, the front part of its dorsal fin contains spines, adding further risk during handling.
In its natural habitat, the Yellowbelly dogface puffer prefers slow-moving waters with turbid sections of streams, making it comfortable in an aquarium with similar conditions. Zooplankton forms a significant part of its diet, and incorporating live rocks in the tank encourages the growth of algae, which the puffer can graze on between meals.