Ambon Toby

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Indo-Pacific, from Seychelles to Hawaii and the Galápagos. Inhabits shallow, high-energy surge zones on reefs.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Belongs to the subfamily Canthigasterinae. Grows to 15 cm. Possesses tough skin and a beak-like snout.

Social Behavior: Active and curious. May display territorial aggression and has been known to nip the fins of slower-moving fish.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Dark brown-gray body covered in numerous small light blue or green dots, with blue lines near eyes. No dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Minimum size of 200 liters (50 gallons) with rock formations and plenty of open water.

Diet and Feeding: Mainly carnivorous. Feed chopped shrimp, clams in shell, mysis, krill, and occasional algae.

Water Quality: Requires high-quality filtration, stable salinity, and good oxygen levels created by wave action.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Suitable with fast-moving, semi-robust species.

Not reef safe: due to nipping.

Aquarium Breeding: Breeding has not been recorded in domestic aquarium environments.

Risks and Diseases: Tooth overgrowth is common. Feed hard-shelled mollusks regularly to naturally grind down the beak.