Tetraodon Palembangensis

Datasheet

Behaviour

The Humpback Puffer, despite its piscivorous nature, may be compatible with larger, active species like big characins or cyprinids but risks always remain. While it is best kept as a solitary fish, multiple specimens can coexist in a spacious tank with ample hiding spots and visual barriers. Some minor conflicts may arise among a group of these puffers, necessitating close monitoring.

Feeding and Diet

Feasting on shellfish, worms, and various live or frozen foods, the Humpback Puffer requires a diet rich in snails and unshelled shellfish to maintain its teeth. Initially hesitant towards non-living foods, it can gradually adapt. Juveniles need feeding every other day, while adults suffice with one or two meals per week due to their sluggish nature.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Though rare, breeding of the Humpback Puffer has been observed in captivity. The fish follows a substrate-spawning pattern, laying eggs in a pit within a cave. Post-spawning, the male nurtures the eggs until hatching, after which the adult should be separated. Fry thrive on brine shrimp nauplii and bloodworms from birth, necessitating adequate hiding places due to their territorial behavior.

Habitat and Distribution

Inhabiting freshwater environments like streams, slow rivers, and ponds across Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, and Indonesia, the Humpback Puffer frequents locales with subtropical water conditions. Maintaining the water within pH levels of 6.8-7.6, hardness of 8-20 dH, and a temperature range of 24-28°C is crucial for their well-being.

Aquarium Setup

To cater to the needs of the Humpback Puffer, providing ample cover in the form of driftwood, large rocks, or clay flowerpots in the tank setup is essential. Although they do not burrow into substrates, they appreciate a habitat with structures facilitating hiding. The fish, sensitive to water quality, necessitates consistent partial water changes to thrive.