Green Spotted Pufferfish (Tetraodon Nigroviridis)

The Green Spotted Pufferfish has an aggressive nature which limits its ability to be housed with other fish so therefore is not suitable for the community tank. They are also scaleless and do not have gill covers so will require immaculate upkeep. Consequently, they are not ideal for a beginner aquarist either. However, these fish are active swimmers, extremely rewarding and are some of the most intelligent fish readily available, with brilliant personalities.

This species begins their life in freshwater and then progresses to saltwater throughout its life.

The Green Spotted Pufferfish has a green body that displays black spots. Its belly is white, and the tail and the fins are light green. This Pufferfish has protruding eyes, a pug-dog face and a frog-like appearance giving it a unique look, all the more reason to keep it as a pet. Amazingly this fish can also recognise its owners and will likely react as soon as a well-known face comes next to the tank.

It has a strong jaw, and instead of the usual fish teeth, there are four teeth-like structures it uses for crushing.

This fish has no pelvic fins; instead, its pectoral fins are used for its manoeuvrability. With this, it can swim backwards or forwards with plenty of energy.

These species puff themselves up when it feels threatened and can balloon as the spines jute outwards to warn an enemy. Its flesh contains a poisonous substance that can kill a predator that eats it.

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Feeding

Because the Green Spotted Pufferfish is a carnivore; it would be best if you aimed to feed your fish on a diet primarily of meaty foodstuffs such as live and/or frozen daphnia, brine shrimp, lobster eggs, cyclops, Mysis shrimp and bloodworm. Bloodworm should be used sparingly as it is hard for your fish to digest.

You can also cut up earthworms from your garden or chop up shop brought mussels, prawns, krill and fresh fish (be sure only to use fresh or frozen fish and not fish canned in oil).

You can also try your fish with dried foods formulated for predatory fish and made up of insect material such as Fluval bug bites, which can also be used to supplement the diet.

Get to know your fish and test which foods they prefere and which they ignore but always be sure not to overfeed your fish and remove excessive uneaten food whenever possible.