Canthigastrinae are definitely not reef-safe. They will eat many invertebrates and at least sample some of the others (even if they dont eat the whole coral thay may sample it). Do not mix them with triggers or fish that are small enough for them to eat. They generally get along well with clownfish, wrasses, tangs, angels, butterflies (except those with long flowing fins), hawkfish, dottybacks and damsels. Choose a puffer’s tankmates carefully to avoid nipped fins and injuries. Don’t mix them with slow moving fish that have long flowing fins.
Puffers are primarily predatory fish in the wild, though they do graze on algae as well. Acceptable foods include shellfish, crustaceans and hard shelled foods such as snails. A large variety of all kinds of live and frozen meaty foods are best. It is best to feed small amounts several times a day. Some of the suggested frozen foods include prawn, crabs/crabs legs, bloodworms (live or frozen), blackworms (live or frozen), silversides, and mussels. Be sure to wash these foods thoroughly before feeding. Live foods can include snails, crabs, crayfish, shrimp (these are good for keeping their teeth trimmed). Live fish will also be eaten but it is thought it may cause problems such as 'fatty" liver and so should be fed sparingly or not at all.. Puffers are not picky eaters and will quickly become adapted to a variety of prepared aquarium foods and an occasional algae wafer. Flake food is not recommended. Even though they may eat it, puffers will not thrive on it.
