Saddle (Valentini) Puffer

Saddle (Valentini) Puffer (Canthigaster coronata)

The Saddle Puffer, also known as the Crowned Puffer, Crowned Toby, or Four Bar Pufferfish, belongs to the Canthigaster genus, often referred to as Sharp-nosed Puffers or Tobies. This species is characterized by its light blue underside and a darker dorsal surface adorned with light blue stripes. It lacks pelvic fins but adeptly uses its pectoral fins for movement in the aquarium.

A 50-gallon or larger fish-only aquarium is recommended for housing the Saddle Puffer. This fish features a fused beak-like structure for teeth and may feed on invertebrates found in a reef tank.

When threatened or startled, the Saddle Puffer can inflate its body to nearly double its normal size, and it may become alarmed and puff up when netted. Therefore, it is best to use a container for transferring the fish.

The Saddle Puffer requires a varied diet of meaty foods such as squid, krill, clams, and hard-shelled shrimp to help manage its ever-growing teeth.