Scribbled Arothron Puffer (Arothron mappa)

The Scribbled Arothron Puffer, also known as the Scribbled Toadfish and Map Puffer, has a very distinct and vivid appearance. The main color ranges from light tans to dark yellows and it has a network of black "scribbles" covering the body, forming an intricate pattern. It lacks pelvic fins, but has learned to use the pectoral fins to move about the aquarium.

It has the ability to inflate its body to almost twice its normal size when threatened or alarmed to discourage others from trying to eat it. Parts of the flesh are poisonous if digested. Its teeth are actually a fused beak-like structure.

A 300 gallon or larger, fish-only aquarium with a good protein skimmer is suitable. It will generally live peacefully with other fish, even other Puffers. It will eat invertebrates found in a reef tank, as well as corals, and even aquarium apparatus. It becomes alarmed when in a net, therefore, use a container to transfer it.

The Scribbled Arothron Puffer needs a varied diet of meaty foods including; squid, krill, clams, and hard shelled shrimp to help wear down their ever growing teeth.

Approximate Purchase Size: Tiny: 1/2" to 1-1/4" Small: 1 1/4" to 2-1/4"; Small/Medium: 2-1/4" to 3-1/4"; Medium: 3-1/4" to 4-1/4"; Medium/Large: 4-1/4" to 5-1/4"; Large: 5-1/4" to 7"

Care details

• dKH: 8 - 12
• Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
• Diet: Carnivore