Figure Eight Puffer
Dichotomyctere ocellatus
Figure Eight Puffer (Dichotomyctere ocellatus) — Advanced care, Aggressive, under Other. Minimum tank in the app: 19.8 US gal min; aim for 72–79°F and pH 7–8. The Figure Eight Puffer is best suited for experienced aquarists who appreciate its unique personality and vibrant feeding behavior.

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.
Natural distribution
Asia / South America
- East & Southeast Asia
- South America
Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.
Figure Eight Puffer Tank Setup
A 75L tank should be decorated with ample hiding spots using rocks, driftwood, and plants to create territories and reduce stress. Moderate water flow will mimic natural conditions, while a sandy substrate can support their burrowing instincts. Lighting should be subdued to prevent overstimulation, allowing the puffer to feel secure.
What Do Figure Eight Puffers Eat?
Feeding should be tailored to their carnivorous diet, focusing on snails and crustaceans that can be hunted in a naturalistic manner. They are competitive feeders; ensure that food is provided in a way that minimizes conflict, such as scattering it across the tank.
Figure Eight Puffer Tank Mates
Ideal companions are robust species that can withstand potential aggression, such as larger cichlids or certain catfish. Avoid long-finned or slow-moving fish, as they are likely to become targets for fin-nipping. Intraspecies, it's best to keep only one puffer per tank unless the space is significantly larger to reduce territorial disputes.
Are Figure Eight Puffers Good for Beginners?
This sits in the advanced range in the app. Strong filtration, stable chemistry, and reading up before purchase matter more than a catchy shop name. Aquarists often underestimate the Figure Eight Puffer's aggressive tendencies, leading to poor tank mate choices. Inadequate space and lack of hiding spots can exacerbate aggression and stress.
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