
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dichotomyctere ocellatus
A small puffer with yellow lines and figure-of-eight markings over a dark brown back, from Indochina to Indonesia. It reaches only about 8cm. Snails are its favourite food and are needed to wear down its ever-growing teeth.
Dichotomyctere ocellatus is a small tetraodontid from Indochina, Malaysia and Indonesia. FishBase records a maximum of 8cm TL, pH 6.5-7.5, 5-12 dH and 22-26C, and states that it feeds on snails and other benthic organisms, is aggressive towards its own kind, and is not a brackish-water species. Seriously Fish likewise notes that it is found most often in fresh water while also occurring frequently in brackish conditions. It is still widely traded as Tetraodon biocellatus. Seriously Fish suggests a 75 x 30cm base of about 68 litres and stresses regular partial water changes, since the fish is very sensitive to declining quality. The teeth grow throughout life, so snails and shelled crustaceans must be fed regularly. Studies suggest singly kept fish live considerably longer; if several are kept, use at least four so aggression is spread. The IUCN lists it as Data Deficient.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Figure Eight Puffer lives 5-8 years.
The Figure Eight Puffer grows to Up to 8cm TL.
The ideal temperature for the Figure Eight Puffer is 22〜26℃.
Origin
Asia (Indochina, Malaysia and Indonesia)
Lifespan
5-8 years
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Dichotomyctere ocellatus (Steindachner, 1870)
Synonyms: Tetraodon biocellatus, Chelonodon biocellatus
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Size
Up to 8cm TL
Temperature
22〜26℃
Snails, shelled crustaceans and frozen foods
Seriously Fish suggests a 75 x 30cm base of about 68 litres. Arrange roots and branches over sand for cover while leaving open water, since it is active, and diffuse the light with floating plants.
Both Seriously Fish and FishBase give 22-26C, pH 6.5-7.5 and 5-12 dGH. FishBase states plainly that it is not a brackish-water species, so fresh water is appropriate. It is very sensitive to poor water, so partial changes are essential.
It nips slow-moving or long-finned fish. In fresh water, fast species such as characins, rasboras and barbs suit it best. It is aggressive to its own kind, and singly kept fish are reported to live longer.
Feed snails and shelled crustaceans regularly to keep the continuously growing teeth in check. Frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp are readily taken. Dried food should not be the staple.
It is not thought to have been bred in the hobby. It is believed to be a substrate spawner in which the male shows some degree of brood care.
Its body carries tetrodotoxin, so a dead fish must never be fed to other animals. It inflates when alarmed; never lift it into the air, where it can take in gas. The IUCN lists it as Data Deficient and it is not covered by CITES.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Figure Eight Puffer is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Figure Eight Puffer is 5-8 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Figure Eight Puffer typically reaches Up to 8cm TL as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Figure Eight Puffer feeds on: Snails, shelled crustaceans and frozen foods. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Figure Eight Puffer varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 28, 2026