General information – Green spotted puffers are brackish fish.

Unfortunately many pet stores sell them as freshwater fish and many

people keep them as a freshwater fish. In freshwater, the Green spotted

puffers won't thrive and will eventually die. The Green Spotted Puffer

can live up to 10 years in captivity. The green spotted puffer is very

popular fish in brackish fish tank due to his being very active and

curious fish. The Green Spotted Puffer known to be a talented snail

eater. Puffer fish have the ability to fill their body with water or with air

and 'puff' themselves up when they feel in danger. When they puff

themselves, their spines protrude outward.      

Common Name - Green Spotted Puffer, GSP, Spotted Puffer 

Scientific Name - Tetraodon nigroviridis 

Family - Tetraodon 

Photo by: Chief

Origin - Asia 

Size – Up to 6 in 

First discovered - Unknown 

Nutrition – In nature, the Green Spotted Puffer feed on crustaceans. In captivity they should eat meaty

foods. Frozen foods such as Mysis, Krill can be part of their diet along with live foods, freshwater

shrimps, crickets, worms and snails. Snails should be provided on a regular basis  

Behavior - Aggressive 

Maintenance and care – The Green Spotted Puffer requires a 60 gallon tank size with woods, hiding

places and a lot of swimming space. Green Spotted Puffer is messy eaters and high waste producers

so strong filtration is more then recommended. Aragonite/crushed coral substrates are used to help

maintain a stable PH levels (about 8). Juveniles should be kept in low range of specific gravity 1.004-1.008

while adults require 1.018-1.022. This fish is a well known fin-nipper. Puffers don't have scales so they are

prone to diseases, nitrite, nitrate and ammonia levels should be monitored.        

Water Parameters – Temperature: 78F-82F (25C-28C), PH: 7.5-8.5  

Breeding - Has not been bred commercially in captivity but few successes have been recorded.