A recent, novel addition to the freshwater aquarium hobby, Pea Puffers, known by many other names, are very small members of the pufferfish family. However, don't let their small size and cute appearance trick you! Some of these tiny fish can be very aggressive, even against their own kind. Be sure to give them a proper diet and lots of room to ensure a healthy and thriving population.
Species Overview
COMMON NAMES: Pea Puffer, Dwarf Puffer, Bumblebee Puffer, Malabar Puffer, Pygmy Puffer
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Carinotetraodon travancoricus
ADULT SIZE: 1 to 1.5 inches
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 4 years
CharacteristicsFamily Tetradontidae Origin India Social Aggressive Tank Level Top, mid-dweller
Minimum Tank Size 10 gallons
Diet Carnivore Breeding Egg layer
Care Intermediate pH 7.0 to 8.0
Hardness 5 to 15 dkH
ITemperature 72 to 82F (22 to 28C)
Origin and Distribution
Native to the Western Ghats of India, these cute little fish have been in decline since their introduction to the aquarium hobby. The Pea Puffer is found in many of the lakes and rivers of this region of India. They are listed as "vulnerable" on the International Union for Conservation, right above endangered. Please consider this carefully before deciding to bring these fish home.
Colors and Markings
The Pea Puffer has a small, rounded body with a golden back that blends into a white or tan belly. Their back is covered in dark brown to black spots. Like many other puffers, their body is fairly round with eyes that slightly protrude from their pointed head. Their tail tapers to a point with a minimized dorsal fin and absent pelvic fins.
Tankmates
Due to their aggressive nature, there are few, if any, species that can be kept in the same system. Most systems containing Pea Puffers will ONLY have Pea Puffers and no other fish. If you are adding these fish to a pre-established tank, be sure they are the last to be added. It is best to always add the most aggressive species to a mixed-species tank last to give others room to call their own and places to hide.
Due to their carnivorous nature, it is not recommended to keep any invertebrates in their tank. They will become lunch for a ravenous Pea Puffer. This includes shrimp and snails.
Pea Puffer Habitat and Care
Pea Puffers like a well-maintained tank with lots of plants to hide in. Given their small nature, they are used to being snacks for larger fish, so lots of cover, with either plants or other décor items, is critical to their overall stress level. However, keep in mind that lots of aquarium plants may affect your pH and oxygen levels, so make sure your tank can handle the bioload.
Pea Puffers tend to be more sensitive to poor water conditions than other freshwater species. It is critical for you to check your water chemistry and keep up with your regular maintenance.
