Guineafowl Puffer (Arothron meleagris) Care Guide
Arothron meleagris is a large corallivorous puffer covered in white spots; it reaches about 50 cm and is not reef-safe.
Overview
Arothron meleagris, the guineafowl puffer, is a large puffer of the family Tetraodontidae, described by Lacepede in 1798. The body is black or yellow and covered in numerous white spots, recalling the plumage of a guineafowl. It contains tetrodotoxin and saxitoxin stored in the liver, gonads and skin.
Taxonomy
- Family: Tetraodontidae
- Genus: Arothron
- Scientific name: Arothron meleagris
Habitat
According to FishBase, the species occurs across the Indo-Pacific from East Africa to the eastern Pacific (Mexico to Ecuador), at depths of 1-73 m. It is a solitary, benthopelagic fish of coral-rich clear lagoons and seaward reefs, preferring oceanic localities.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 800 L (211 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- GH: 8-12 °dGH
- Water flow: medium
- Lifespan: 8-20 years
Diet
The species is a carnivore that feeds primarily on the tips of branching corals, and to a lesser extent on sponges, molluscs, bryozoans, tunicates, foraminiferans, algae and detritus. This obligate coral-grazing makes it incompatible with reef systems. In captivity it should receive meaty marine foods twice daily.
Compatibility
Temperament is semi-aggressive and the fish swims in the middle of the water column. It is not reef-safe and will eat corals, ornamental shrimp, snails and crabs. Suitable companions are large, robust species such as triggerfish and larger angelfish; small fish should be avoided.
Breeding
The species is oviparous (egg-laying). Captive breeding is considered very difficult.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2011).