Common Name: Red Congo Puffer
Scientific Name: Tetraodon miurus
Other Names: Congo Puffer
The Red Congo Puffer is a wild-caught freshwater puffer from Central Africa. It is a stocky, big-headed puffer that buries itself in sand with only its eyes showing, waiting to ambush passing prey. Freshwater puffers are full of personality, and this species is especially interesting to watch as it hunts.
Habitat and Distribution:
Tetraodon miurus is native to the Congo River basin of Central Africa, where it lives over sandy bottoms in flowing water. The Congo is the deepest river in the world and one of the most species-rich river systems in Africa.
Size and Lifespan:
It reaches about 5-6 inches (13-15 cm). Lifespan in captivity is not well documented for this species, but with good care it can be expected to live for many years.
Diet and Behavior:
It is carnivorous and feeds on fish, crustaceans and snails in the wild. In the aquarium, offer snails, shrimp, earthworms and fish; hard-shelled foods help keep its teeth worn down. It is an aggressive ambush predator, so keep it alone. Feed a varied diet and remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Congo puffers are not bred in home aquariums. Little is documented about its breeding habits in the wild.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A tank of at least 30 gallons is recommended for one fish. Provide a soft sand bottom so it can bury itself, efficient filtration and regular water changes, as puffers are messy eaters. The water temperature should be kept between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 6.5-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water. New arrivals should be acclimated slowly.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Keep it alone. It will bite or eat almost any tank mate. As with any aquarium, introduce new fish carefully and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. It needs a species tank and hard-shelled foods. It is well suited to aquarists with some experience who can maintain stable water conditions.
Water Parameters:
-
Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
-
pH: 6.5-7.5
-
General Hardness (GH): 5-12 dGH
-
Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
-
Ammonia: 0 ppm
-
Nitrite: 0 ppm
-
Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Provide a soft sand bottom so it can bury itself.
- Hard-shelled foods help keep its teeth worn down.
- Fun fact: Its eyes sit high on its head, letting it watch for prey while buried in sand.
The Red Congo Puffer is a characterful ambush predator for a species tank. With the right setup and care, it will be a rewarding addition for many years.
