Mekong Pufferfish

Pao palembangensis (previously Tetraodon palembangensis) is a medium-sized freshwater pufferfish from the Mekong, Salween, and Malay Peninsula river systems of Southeast Asia. It displays an attractive olive-brown and cream blotched patterning with bright orange-yellow eye rings. Adults reach up to 18 cm, making this a true mid-size species requiring a substantial aquarium.

Like all freshwater pufferfish, P. palembangensis is highly intelligent and interactive. It recognises its keeper and will patrol the front of the tank at feeding time. It is strictly carnivorous and requires a varied diet of hard-shelled invertebrates to maintain proper beak length. Aggressive feeding behaviour may be directed at slower tank mates.

P. palembangensis is best maintained as a single specimen in a species aquarium or with large, robust fish that cannot be easily intimidated. It is one of the more impressive medium-sized freshwater puffers available in the hobby.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 6.5-7.5, soft to moderately hard — adaptable but prefers clean, warm water. Tank: 150 L minimum for an adult; robust décor; provide snails regularly. Feeding: live snails, shrimp, mussel, clam, crayfish — hard foods essential; supplement with frozen bloodworm. Breeding: not commonly achieved in captivity. Compatibility: species-only or with very large robust fish — aggressive and likely to bite.