Puffer Green Spotted

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Tetraodon nigroviridis
• Common Name: Green Spotted Puffer
• Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 10 years or more with proper care
• Habitat: Coastal and estuarine waters in Southeast Asia; often found in brackish or freshwater environments as juveniles and transition to brackish/marine as they mature

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a single adult; larger for multiples or community setups
• Ideal Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH Range: 7.5–8.5
• Water Hardness: Moderate to hard (8–20 dGH)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial and may nip fins, especially in smaller tanks or with slow-moving tankmates

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
  • Prefers a varied diet of meaty foods such as snails, shrimp, krill, bloodworms, and occasionally plant-based matter
  • Needs hard-shelled foods to help wear down continuously growing teeth

Appearance

• Coloration: Bright green with black spots across the back and yellowish underbelly
• Size: Compact, rounded body with a beak-like mouth
• Skin Texture: Lacks scales; sensitive to water quality changes

Distinctive Features

• Inflates into a ball shape when threatened (defensive mechanism)
• Sharp, fused teeth that resemble a beak
• Transitions from freshwater (juveniles) to brackish or marine water (adults)
• Highly intelligent and curious behavior often interacts with owners