Checkered Pufferfish

The Checkered Pufferfish (Sphoeroides testudineus) is a semi-aggressive species that is not reef-safe, admired for its distinct checkered/turtle-shell-like patterning, compact body shape, curious personality, and ability to inflate when threatened.

Males typically display slightly bolder markings and may show more territorial behavior, while females/juveniles tend to have softer coloration and are less dominant.

They reach about 10–12 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 100 gallons. Provide a sandy substrate, live rock for grazing and hiding, and ample open swimming space, along 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 are known to be escape artists.

Diet should consist of mysis shrimp, krill, clams, squid, and other meaty marine foods, as well as hard-shelled items (crustaceans, snails) to keep their continuously growing teeth filed down.

With proper care, this fish makes a standout, personality-filled addition to large fish-only marine aquariums.

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.