Malabar pufferfish vs Violet goby: can they live together?

Verdict: Not recommended

  • The Violet goby is best kept in a species tank.
  • The Violet goby can be semi-aggressive or nip fins.
  • The Malabar pufferfish is best kept in a species tank.
  • The Malabar pufferfish can be semi-aggressive or nip fins.
  • An adult Violet goby is about 20 times the length of a Malabar pufferfish and may eat it.
  • Both are comfortable at 22–26°C (72–79°F).
  • A pH of 7.5–8.0 suits both.

Side by side

Malabar pufferfishViolet goby
Adult size2.5 cm (1 in)50 cm (20 in)
Minimum tank20 L (5 US gal)210 L (55 US gal)
Temperature22–28°C (72–82°F)20–26°C (68–79°F)
pH7.5–8.37.0–8.0
Hardness5–15 dGH (89–268 ppm)9–19 dGH (161–339 ppm)
TemperamentSemi-aggressiveSemi-aggressive
Community tankNot suitableNot suitable
Care level–Moderate

Species profiles