Dwarf Pea Puffer

Carinotetraodon travancoricus, commonly called the Pea Puffer or Malabar Puffer, is endemic to the slow-moving rivers and backwaters of Kerala, India. Males display iridescent green-gold colouration with dark spots and a yellow belly, while females are plumper and paler. Despite their tiny 3.5 cm size, they are bold, curious fish with very large personalities that pack serious fin-nipping aggression.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard; pristine water quality is essential. Tank: Minimum 40 L for one male; heavily planted with Java moss, floating plants, and dense hardscape to break sightlines. Feeding: Live or frozen bloodworm, daphnia, and small snails (ramshorns) to maintain beak wear. Behaviour: Highly intelligent and inquisitive; males are territorial — keep one male per tank or in heavily planted trios. Compatibility: Species-only strongly recommended; will nip fins of any tankmate.