Arrowhead Puffer (Thai Wild Form)

Wild-caught Pao suvattii from Thailand display a more vivid, better-defined pale-tan cryptic patterning and deeper body than captive-bred specimens, making them particularly sought by collectors. This species is the master ambush predator of freshwater puffer keeping: it buries itself in a deep sand substrate with only the eyes protruding, then strikes at passing prey with explosive speed. The aquarium must have at least 5 cm of fine sand to allow burying behaviour. Hard-shelled prey must be provided regularly as this species' beak grows rapidly. It is entirely intolerant of tankmates. Water movement should be gentle and consistent with the still, sandy-bottomed river-bed microhabitats where it is found.

Water: pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 24–28°C, soft to moderate; clean; gentle flow; pristine conditions. Tank: 150 L minimum; 5 cm+ fine sand depth essential; minimal décor; gentle filtration flow. Feeding: Live or frozen feeder fish, large earthworms, crayfish, shrimp, mussels; ambush-feeds on movement. Breeding: Not bred in captivity reliably; paternal guarding hypothesised. Compatibility: Absolutely solitary; will attack and consume any tankmate without warning.