Crown Toby

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Indo-Pacific reefs, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii. Found on deeper seaward reef slopes and rocky walls.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Belongs to the family Tetraodontidae, subfamily Canthigasterinae. Pointed snout and rigid skin capable of inflating. Grows to 14 cm.

Social Behavior: Active yet peaceful. May display aggression toward other tobies. Swims using precise pectoral fin movements.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Creamy white body with three to four distinct dark brown saddle bands across the back, and neon blue lines around eyes. No dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Minimum size of 200 liters (50 gallons) with plenty of live rock to support natural foraging.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous. Provide chopped clams, mysis, brine shrimp, and algae. Hard foods are required for tooth wear.

Water Quality: Requires stable marine parameters: temperature 23-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and efficient waste export.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Great with moderately sized, active fish.

Not safe with small invertebrates: or soft coral polyps.

Aquarium Breeding: Uncommon in home reef aquariums; demersal spawners.

Risks and Diseases: Prone to external parasites like marine ich if stressed. Avoid high water current.