Description
Dwarf puffers are small, < 3.5 cm, freshwater fish native to India, known for their round bodies, beak-like mouth, and independently moving eyes. They are carnivores, primarily eating invertebrates, and are known for their “big personality” despite their small size. They are sexually dimorphic, with males being more brightly colored with iridescent markings and a midventral stripe, while females are larger, rounder, and lack these distinct lines. A key characteristic is their ability to inflate their bodies when threatened.
Key Features
Size: One of the smallest pufferfish species, typically under 3.5 cm (1.4 inches) in length.
Appearance: Round, oblong bodies, beaks formed by fused teeth, and independently moving eyes.
Skin: Lacks scales and has rough, spiky, or iridescence-covered skin.
Inflatable Body: Can inflate to protect themselves when feeling threatened.
Toxin: Possess the toxin tetrodotoxin, making them poisonous.
Diet: Carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates like worms and snails.
Habitat: Freshwater rivers and lakes in Southwestern India.
Species & Sexual Dimorphism
Species:
Often referred to as Pea Puffer or Pygmy Puffer, they belong to the genus Carinotetraodon. Males:
Typically smaller, with a yellow ventral surface, and may have a dark stripe down the belly and blue or black eye wrinkles.
Females:
Generally larger and rounder than males, with white abdomens and smaller, less distinct markings than males.
Aquarium Care
Tank Size:
Suitable for small aquariums, with recommendations around 5 gallons for a single fish.
Water Conditions:
Essential to maintain clean, stable water conditions and regular water changes, as they are sensitive to poor quality.
Tank Mates:
Due to their territorial nature, they are best kept alone or in groups of at least six in a single-species tank to avoid aggression, especially among males.
Tank Decor:
Live plants are recommended for cover and to help maintain dissolved oxygen levels.
Food:
A high-protein diet of worms, snails, and other small invertebrates is preferred.
Pufferfish – National Geographic
Diet. The diet of the pufferfish includes mostly invertebrates and algae. Large specimens will even crack open and eat clams, muss…
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