Blue & Gold Pufferfish

The Blue & Gold Pufferfish (Arothron meleagris). It is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking coloration (black with golden/yellow mottling or completely golden phase), unique patterns, large expressive eyes, and comical personality.

Males typically show stronger coloration contrasts and may grow slightly larger, while females/juveniles tend to have less intense markings and more mottled patterns.

They reach about 18 inches as adults and should be housed in aquariums of at least 180 gallons. Provide ample live rock for hiding and grazing, open swimming space, and a sandy bottom, with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure lid is essential since puffers can be jumpy and curious.

Diet should consist of a varied mix of meaty foods such as squid, clam, shrimp, krill, mussels, along with occasional hard-shelled foods (to help wear down their continuously growing teeth), plus frozen preparations.

With proper care, this fish makes a bold, centerpiece addition to a large marine aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.