Eyespot pufferfish vs Malabar pufferfish: can they live together?

Verdict: Not recommended

  • The Malabar pufferfish is best kept in a species tank.
  • The Malabar pufferfish can be semi-aggressive or nip fins.
  • The Eyespot pufferfish is best kept in a species tank.
  • The Eyespot pufferfish can be semi-aggressive or nip fins.
  • An adult Eyespot pufferfish is about 3 times the length of a Malabar pufferfish and may eat it.
  • Both are comfortable at 22–26°C (72–79°F).
  • A pH of 7.5 suits both.

Side by side

Eyespot pufferfishMalabar pufferfish
Adult size8 cm (3.1 in)2.5 cm (1 in)
Minimum tank75 L (20 US gal)20 L (5 US gal)
Temperature22–26°C (72–79°F)22–28°C (72–82°F)
pH6.5–7.57.5–8.3
Hardness5–12 dGH (89–214 ppm)5–15 dGH (89–268 ppm)
TemperamentSemi-aggressiveSemi-aggressive
Community tankNot suitableNot suitable
DietOmnivore–

Species profiles