Green Pufferfish (Dichotomyctere fluviatilis) Care Guide
Dichotomyctere fluviatilis is a South and Southeast Asian puffer of fresh to slightly brackish rivers and estuaries, a carnivore feeding on molluscs.
Overview
Dichotomyctere fluviatilis, the Green Pufferfish (formerly Tetraodon fluviatilis), reaches about 17 cm total length. It has a metallic yellow or green top covered in black spots, a white underbelly and bulging metallic blue eyes. Its flesh contains a virulent toxin.
Taxonomy
- Family: Tetraodontidae
- Genus: Dichotomyctere
- Scientific name: Dichotomyctere fluviatilis
- Described by Hamilton, 1822
Habitat
It is found in South and Southeast Asia in rivers, estuaries, lakes and flood plains containing fresh to slightly brackish water.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L (about 53 gal)
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 7.5-8.5
- GH: 12-25 °dGH
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Diet
It is primarily carnivorous, eating molluscs, crustaceans and invertebrates that it crushes with its beak, and occasionally consuming algae, plant matter, fish scales and detritus. In captivity it will also take vegetation and commercial fish food, with hard-shelled prey helping control beak growth.
Compatibility
A middle-water, semi-aggressive puffer. Long-finned fish and slow swimmers should be avoided; it is best housed with robust brackish-tolerant fish or kept alone.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.