Tetraodon Lineatus

Datasheet

General Description

Puffer fish, specifically the Fahaka Puffer (Tetraodon Lineatus), possess the unique ability to inflate their elastic stomachs using water or air, often as a defense mechanism. These fish, also known as Nile puffers or globe fish, can be highly aggressive and have toxic properties. They are characterized by expressive eyes, color-changing capabilities, and the presence of the deadly neurotoxin tetrodotoxin in various parts of their bodies.

Aquarium Setup

For the Fahaka Puffer, a minimum tank size of 450 liters is recommended with freshwater conditions and a substrate of sand. Smooth rocks and driftwood should be added for decoration, providing open spaces for swimming. Aquarists can choose to include plants, although bite marks may appear on leaves if the puffer detects food on them. Water parameters should be maintained at a temperature of 24-26°C, pH of 6.5-7.5, and hardness of 5-15°dH.

Behaviour

Fahaka Puffers are known for their aggressive and intolerant nature, often requiring isolation in captivity. They exhibit territorial behavior and aggressiveness towards tankmates, including conspecifics. Despite some success in keeping them in groups, interaction usually involves aggression and fighting, necessitating a huge tank and fast-swimming tankmates to minimize conflicts.

Feeding and Diet

Being molluscivores in the wild, Fahaka Puffers relish shellfish, worms, and various live/frozen foods in captivity. Regular feeding of snails and unshelled shellfish, like crab legs and mussels, is vital to maintain their sharp teeth as they grow continuously. Failure to grind down their teeth may result in issues for the fish.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding Fahaka Puffers can be challenging due to their aggressive temperament. They may spawn in large aquaria or groups within vast tanks, where females produce an ovipositor when ready to spawn. While there are no external sexual differences, females appear rounded when full of eggs. The pair bond during spawning is weak, with limited interaction before a vigorous spawning event releases thousands of eggs.

Habitat and Distribution

Tetraodon Lineatus is found in lakes and rivers across regions such as Egypt, Kenya, Sudan, Ghana, and Nigeria. Their habitat ranges from open waters to heavily vegetated areas, where they thrive in diverse aquatic environments.