Pea Puffer – Carinotetraodon travancoricus

The Pea Puffer, also known as the Dwarf Pufferfish, is a tiny, captivating freshwater fish known for its inquisitive nature and bold personality. Despite their small size, these pufferfish are highly interactive and can add a dynamic presence to any aquarium.

Description:

Common Names: Pea Puffer, Dwarf Pufferfish, Malabar Puffer

Scientific Name: Carinotetraodon travancoricus

Family: Tetraodontidae

Size: Up to 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Coloration: Olive green body with black spots; males may display a blue eye stripe during courtship.

Native Region:

Pea Puffers are endemic to the freshwater river systems of southwest India, particularly in slow-moving or still waters rich in vegetation.

Aquarium Setup:

Tank Size: Minimum of 5 gallons for a single puffer; 10+ gallons recommended for groups

Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

Plants and Decor: Dense vegetation with live plants like Java fern, Anubias, and mosses; add caves and driftwood for exploration and hiding

Water Parameters:

Temperature: 74-82F (23-28C)

pH: 6.5-7.5

Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (5-15 dGH)

Care Level:

Difficulty: Moderate; requires specialized care and attention to water quality

Diet: Carnivorous; prefers live or frozen food such as bloodworms, daphnia, and snails (helps prevent overgrown teeth)

Behavior: Territorial and can be aggressive, especially toward other puffers; best kept alone or in a species-only tank

Additional Tips:

Tank Mates: If housed with other species, choose fast-moving, non-aggressive fish; avoid slow or long-finned fish that may become targets.

Feeding Note: Pea Puffers need a varied diet to thrive and prevent boredom.

Maintenance: Ensure regular water changes and maintain a clean environment to keep them healthy and active.