Eyespot Puffer

Dichotomyctere ocellatus is distributed from Sri Lanka and India through Southeast Asia, living in rivers, estuaries, and coastal lagoons. The prominent dark eyespot near the tail base is thought to confuse predators. It tolerates a range of salinities from fully fresh to slightly brackish, making it adaptable but still best kept in a species-only setting due to its aggressive fin-nipping behaviour.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 6.5–8.0, soft to hard; tolerates low-end brackish (SG 1.002–1.005). Tank: Minimum 80 L; planted with robust species like Java fern; open sandy areas for foraging. Feeding: Snails, bloodworm, daphnia, mussels; hard-shelled foods are essential. Behaviour: Aggressive fin-nipper; territorial — best in species-only setup. Compatibility: Species-only; can be kept in pairs in larger tanks with careful observation.