Saddle Valentini Puffer

Also known as Valentini Puffer (Saddle Pattern), Black Saddled Toby

The Saddle Valentini Puffer is the same species as the Mimic Saddle Puffer (Canthigaster valentini), featuring distinctive black “saddle” markings on a white body with yellow-orange coloration. This small, personable species is popular for its attractive pattern and manageable size. While interactive and interesting, this puffer can be territorial and is known to nip at tankmates and corals, requiring careful consideration of compatibility.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Canthigaster valentini
• Common Names: Valentini Puffer, Black Saddle Toby, Saddled Puffer
• Adult Size: Up to 4 inches
• Lifespan: 5-8 years with proper care
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef safe; will nip corals and eat invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum
• Experience Level: Intermediate; territorial behavior requires monitoring

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Provide open swimming areas with live rock featuring caves and multiple territories. Moderate water flow was appreciated. Include visual barriers to reduce aggression. Secure all decorations.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Good water quality essential

Equipment Recommendations:

• Quality filtration system
• Protein skimmer
• Moderate water circulation
• Secure lid

These maintain healthy conditions for this small predator.

Diet & Feeding

Saddle Valentini Puffers are carnivores requiring varied diets.

Recommended foods include:

• Primary: Frozen mysis shrimp, frozen krill, chopped seafood
• Hard-shelled foods: Small snails, small shrimp with shells (ESSENTIAL)
• Variety: Squid, scallops, clams, marine fish
• Supplements: Vitamin-enriched foods

Feeding Frequency: 1-2 times daily

Special Note: MUST have regular hard-shelled foods to wear down continuously growing teeth. Without proper hard foods, teeth overgrow preventing proper feeding.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Tankmates: Best with semi-aggressive fish; avoid peaceful species
• Territorial: Can be aggressive toward other small fish
• Fin Nipper: Known to nip fins of slow-moving tankmates
• Reef Safety: Will nip coral polyps and consume invertebrates

Notes & Considerations

• Attractive black saddle pattern on white body with yellow-orange tail.
• Mimics toxic Saddle Filefish as protective strategy.
• Small size suitable for moderate aquariums.
• Very personable and interactive despite small size.
• Recognizes the owner and becomes quite bold.
• Can be territorial and aggressive.
• May harass peaceful tankmates persistently.
• Known fin nipper; avoid long-finned or slow fish.
• Teeth grow continuously; hard foods are mandatory for tooth health.
• Will consume ornamental shrimp and snails.
• Actively nips at coral polyps including soft corals and LPS.
• Not suitable for reef aquariums.
• Best in fish-only or FOWLR systems.
• Smaller size allows keeping in moderately sized tanks.
• May become more aggressive in cramped conditions.
• Produces toxins when severely stressed.
• Generally does not release toxins unless dying.
• Hardy once established; disease-resistant.
• Can jump when startled; secure lid recommended.
• Native to Indo-Pacific coral reefs.
• Same species as Mimic Saddle Puffer.
• Requires careful tankmate selection for success.

Why Choose a Quarantined Saddle Valentini Puffer?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, well-acclimated puffer. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and trained to accept varied foods including essential hard-shelled items for tooth maintenance before sale. This provides the best foundation for long-term success with this attractive but territorial small puffer.