Red Eye Puffer (Carinotetraodon irrubesco)

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Carinotetraodon irrubesco female.JPG
Female Red Eye Puffer

Carinotetraodon irrubesco

57 Litres (15 US G.)

4-4.5 cm (1.6-1.8")

sg

Freshwater

pH

6.0 - 7.8

23 -26 °C (73.4-78.8°F)

8-15 °d

1:2 M:F

Carnivore
Live Foods

5-8 years

Family

Tetraodontidae



Additional names

Red Eye Puffer, Crested Puffer


Origin

Asia: currently known only from the lower parts of the Banjuasin basin in Sumatra Selatan; and the Sambas river in Kalimantan Barat.


Sexing

The male is substantially larger than the female and they have very different colour patterns. The female has a mottled body whereas the males body is a more solid steel grey/olive. The male has a ridge along it's back that's raised during courtship.


Tank compatibility

Although one of the more peaceful of the freshwater puffers, it may still nip at other fishes fins and will be aggressive towards invertebrates. Whether a Red Eye will live with others can depend on the individual fish.


Diet

Will like meaty foods including bloodworm, brine shrimp, and small snails.


Feeding regime

A nocturnal hunter, will tend to eat more and be more active after dark.


Environment specifics

A very messy fish, preferably needs over-filtration. A well planted tank with lots of hiding places is best. This is an entirely freshwater fish, it does not need salt in it's water.


Behaviour

Behaviour varies greatly with this little fish. Sometimes the individual will be timid, sometimes it will attack everything in sight!


Identification

As its common name suggests, this fish has bright red eyes. The males and females differ in colour, see Sexing.

Pictures

External links