Tetraodon schoutedeni puffer

Tetraodon schoutedeni, the Schoutedeni puffer, is a small, peaceful freshwater puffer with charming patterns, ideal for community tanks with careful tank mates.

🐠 Tetraodon schoutedeni – Product Description

The Tetraodon schoutedeni, commonly known as the Schoutedeni puffer, is a small freshwater puffer native to the Congo River Basin. Renowned for its distinctive spotted pattern and relatively peaceful temperament compared to other puffers, it is a popular choice among puffer enthusiasts. Growing up to around 3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm), this species is ideal for medium-sized freshwater aquariums. Its fascinating behavior, combined with manageable size and care requirements, makes it an excellent addition to community tanks that can accommodate its semi-aggressive nature.

🌊 Water Conditions

• Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

• pH Range: 6.5 – 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

• Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a single adult, larger for groups or community setups

• Filtration: Moderate filtration with good water turnover; maintain excellent water quality

• Water Changes: Weekly water changes (20–30%) to keep water fresh and parameters stable

🍽️ Feeding Habits

• Diet: Carnivorous, primarily feeding on small invertebrates and mollusks

  • Prefers live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, snails, and small crustaceans

  • May accept high-quality carnivore pellets or flakes but live/frozen foods are preferred for health and coloration

• Feeding Frequency: Feed daily or every other day, adjusting amount to prevent overfeeding

• Feeding Tips: Offer small portions near the substrate or decor where they prefer to forage

🐡 Tank Mates

• Compatible Tank Mates:

  • Peaceful to semi-aggressive fish of similar size

  • Species such as small barbs, tetras, danios, and robust catfish that won’t nip fins or stress the puffer

• Avoid:

  • Very small fish that may be eaten

  • Highly aggressive or fin-nipping fish

  • Overcrowding, which can cause stress and territorial disputes

🛠️ Care and Behavior

• Temperament:

  • Semi-aggressive, territorial but generally less aggressive than larger puffers

  • Active and curious, often exploring the aquarium and investigating decor

• Behavior:

  • Exhibits typical puffer inflation when stressed or threatened

  • Intelligent fish that benefit from environmental enrichment and hiding spots

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Consistent water changes and stable water parameters are essential for health

  • Monitor water quality closely to prevent stress and disease

• Health:

  • Prone to teeth overgrowth if diet lacks hard-shelled foods like snails

  • Regular feeding of appropriate foods helps maintain dental health

📌 Summary

The Tetraodon schoutedeni is a charming and manageable freshwater puffer perfect for moderately sized aquariums and community setups with compatible tank mates. Its unique spotted pattern, moderate size, and engaging behavior make it a favorite among puffer enthusiasts. Providing a varied diet rich in live and frozen foods, maintaining stable water conditions, and offering sufficient space will ensure a healthy, thriving puffer. This species is ideal for hobbyists looking for a distinctive and interactive addition to their aquarium.