Fish Coral Inverts

Stars and Stripes Puffer

Arothron hispidus

Share Your Photos

Be the first to contribute photos or videos of this fish.

Your profile will be tagged on all media you contribute.

Share Your Photos

Be the first to contribute photos or videos of this fish.

Your profile will be tagged on all media you contribute.

Suggested Tank

180+ gallons

Max Size

20 inches

Difficulty

Medium

Temperament

Semi-Aggressive

Description

A large, personable Indo-Pacific puffer with a greenish-tan to gray body covered in white "star" spots above and fine horizontal stripes on the lower half, plus the dark pectoral-fin base and concentric rings around the eye and pectorals typical of Arothron. Intelligent and interactive but destructive: powerful fused beak-teeth crush snails, crabs, shrimp, clams and corals, and it will nip slow or small tankmates, so keep it in a very large fish-only or FOWLR system with sturdy, well-secured rockwork. Heavy feeder and messy waste producer requiring oversized filtration and a strong skimmer; offer hard-shelled foods to wear down continuously growing teeth, and never net or lift it into air, since inflating with air can be fatal.

Reef Safe

Environment

The Stars and Stripes Puffer requires a well-maintained marine aquarium with stable water parameters. It prefers a tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and exploring, as well as open swimming space. The water temperature should be kept between 74-78°F with a pH of 8.1-8.4.

Behavior

This puffer is known for its curious and interactive behavior. It can recognize its owner and often exhibits playful antics. However, it may nip at tank mates or invertebrates, so care should be taken when choosing tank companions.

Information might not be complete or accurate. Help the community by suggesting corrections.