Nile Puffer

Tetraodon lineatus is distributed across the Nile, Niger, Senegal, and Volta river systems of Africa, where it inhabits slow-flowing stretches with sandy beds and submerged vegetation. Its cream-and-brown horizontal striping is distinctive among African puffers. Despite moderate aquarium availability, its eventual size of up to 40 cm means it is suitable only for very large setups or specialist keepers.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard; pristine water quality essential at large size. Tank: Minimum 400 L; open sandy substrate with large driftwood and robust rockwork. Feeding: Large snails, mussels, clams, prawns, and whole cockles. Behaviour: Highly territorial and aggressive; will attack fish of any size — strict solo housing. Compatibility: Species-only; individual housing is absolutely required.