Lorteti Puffer

Carinotetraodon lorteti is widely distributed across the river systems of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, making it more frequently available in the trade than some congeners. The vivid crimson-red eyes are the most immediately striking feature, contrasting with the olive-brown mottled body. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced: males develop a dark median stripe and richer body patterning, while females are plainer and rounder-bodied. It is best kept in a planted species tank as a single male with one or two females, providing sufficient territory per fish. Carinotetraodon lorteti adapts well to neutral water but benefits from slightly soft conditions. It is one of the better dwarf puffers for confident intermediate keepers transitioning beyond pea puffers.

Water: pH 6.5–7.5, temperature 24–28°C, soft to moderate; pristine quality; avoid accumulation of nitrate. Tank: 50 L minimum; dense planting, java moss, floating cover; one male per tank. Feeding: Small snails primary; frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, daphnia; varied rotation weekly. Breeding: Egg scatterer among fine-leaf plants; male guards territory; remove eggs to raise separately. Compatibility: Males fight each other vigorously; females tolerate grouping; avoid mixing with nippy species.