Animal Connections: Duncan

Map pufferfish are named for their intricate, path-like markings. Duncan, the resident map pufferfish at our Animal Care and Rescue Center, is incredibly social and intelligent. He's known to interact with caretakers and guests and even receives regular enrichment items to keep his mind stimulated!

[@DVR01]

First. I've seen Duncan on exhibit at the aquarium several years back in the early 2010s. I hope there will be a movie about him.

[@roastchicken401]

Pufferfish seem to be exceptionally intelligent and aware among fish.

[@Merknilash]

They are. If you ever keep one you definitely become aware of this

[@tonysmmaclass9507]

The issue I have with some people is they get wrapped up in what they ant for the fish rather than what the fish like and what the fish have in the wild. The fake coral disappeared because that’s what he would eat in the ocean, put real coral in and live rocks and a lot of crabs to keep him stimulated, fish get bored and depressed as well, it should always be about the animals

[@aidansmith3821]

A very good boy

[@slikprogressing1984]

That small enclosure hes in looks sad and un natural 😢 poor guy , is he capable if surviving on his own in the wild at this point ? I think that would be better for him if so

[@maryfinelli9390]

It's great that she feels such a connection with him but what a barren, boring existence it looks to be for this "incredibly social and intelligent" fish. Compare that tank to life in the wild, the latter being where he belongs.

[@paulc99]

I'm sure he has a better quality of life at the aquarium.

[@maryfinelli9390]

@@paulc99 Even if that were true it still wouldn't make it right. Zoos and aquariums convey to the public that it's alright to capture/breed animals for captivity for human entertainment. It's not.

[@paulc99]

@@maryfinelli9390 I certainly understand your point of view.

[@maryfinelli9390]

I'm glad, @@paulc99, thanks for letting me know. If only everyone did.

[@paulc99]

@@maryfinelli9390 I often contemplate the ethicalness of the aquarium hobby. This is why I support buying aquacultured fish and groups like Biota whenever possible.

[@MrBlizzard769]

These are the people out there making a difference , it’s not politicians who are the real heroes , it’s people like this lovely lady with a huge heart out there making a difference every day !! God bless her and Duncan and I hope to visit soon !! I’ve had the privlege of visiting many times before !