Tetraodon Miurus

Datasheet

General Description

Known as the Congo Puffer, Tetraodon Miurus belongs to the Tetraodontidae family in the Tetraodontiformes category. These puffer fish have the unique ability to inflate their elastic stomachs with water or air as a defense mechanism against threats, significantly increasing their size and deterring predators. They possess beak-like mouthparts to crush shelled invertebrates, their primary diet, and contain the potent neurotoxin tetrodoxin in various body parts, making them dangerous if not handled properly.

Aquarium Setup

To house Tetraodon Miurus, a minimum tank size of 70 litres is necessary, with freshwater and a sand substrate of 2-3 inches in depth to allow for natural burrowing behavior. Providing smooth rocks, driftwood, and possibly plants offers additional cover for these ambush predators.

Behaviour

Tetraodon Miurus is a voracious predator that poses a risk to tankmates due to its tendency to consume smaller fish and harass larger ones. They are highly intolerant of their species, making solitary confinement essential. These puffers spend most of their time buried in the substrate, camouflaging themselves as rocks or algae-covered surfaces. Their upturned mouth assists in attacking prey from below, showcasing their ambush hunting tactics.

Feeding and Diet

Being ambush predators, Congo Puffers require a diet rich in meaty foods such as prawns, earthworms, lancefish, and mussels. While some individuals may initially only accept live foods, most can be transitioned to dead alternatives over time.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

There is no documented breeding of Tetraodon Miurus in captivity, and their sexual dimorphism remains unknown.

Habitat and Distribution

These puffer fish are native to the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo, inhabiting large rivers with significant flow, including areas with rapids. They prefer environments that enable their natural behavior and feeding habits.