The Valentini Puffer, Canthigaster valentini, is also known as the black saddle puffer. Unlike other fish, it uses its pectoral fins for forward and backward movement. The Valentini Puffer can grow to be 4 inches, and should be kept in a tank no less than 30 gallons, and since it is toxic in nature, it is best suitable to keep in fish-only aquarium. When threatened, it generally inflates its body by taking in water in an attempt to prevent others from eating it. Using a container with water as opposed to a net when removing or transferring any Pufferfish is crucial to avoid ingestion of air.
The Valentini Puffer is a very sensitive species since it has no scales. We recommend the tank to have plenty of open space, along with pristine water conditions to ensure optimal health. They can be kept individually or in pairs. If kept in a pair, they should be added at the same time and to a larger tank, otherwise the males may become too aggressive.
The Valentini Puffer is not at all considered reef safe, as it tends to nip over the corals, smaller Inverts such as Shrimp and has even been known to nip at other fishes fins. The Valentini Puffer is peaceful in nature and should get along with pretty much any fish, as long as the proper space is provided. When trying to keep Puffers with other fishes, it is essential to provide plenty of space, hiding holes and decorations that will allow your Puffer to create its own territory.
The Valentini Puffer is omnivore and can be fed with vitamin-enriched Shrimp, chopped Cockle, Squid, Clam, as well as vegetable matter, and green filamentous algae and Spirulina for continued health. You should also offer hard shelled Shrimp to wear down their ever growing teeth. It doesn’t have a beak but instead has plate like teeth, which if overgrown, may require an emergency action. This Puffer will thrive in a temperature range of 72-78° F and a pH of 8.1-8.4.
