Congo Puffer

Tetraodon miurus

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Other names: Potato puffer, Miurus

Group: Oddballs and specialty fish · Family: Tetraodontidae · Origin: Central Africa — fast-flowing stretches of the Congo River

An African ambush puffer that buries itself in sand, leaving only the eyes on top of its head exposed, and matches its color to the substrate. It reaches 15 cm, is extremely aggressive and is kept alone.

Will it suit my tank?

Last updated October 16, 2026

Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 6.5–7.5
Hardness: 5–15 dGH
Adult size: 15 cm
Minimum tank size: 100 liters
Social structure: Solitary
Swimming zone: Bottom
Diet: Carnivore
Breeding: Egg scatterer

Water parameters

Temperature24–28°C

pH6.5–7.5

General hardness (GH)5–15 dGH

Recommended range

Fin nipper Eats small fish Eats shrimp Eats snails Suitable for planted tanks At most 1 per tank

Overview

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

The Congo puffer is an ambush predator that lives buried in sand in the fast-flowing stretches of the Congo River. Its eyes are on top of its head and its mouth faces upward; only its eyes show above the sand. Its color can be brown, reddish or sand-colored and changes to suit the substrate. It reaches around 15 cm.

Tank Setup

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

At least 100 liters for a single individual.
A fine, deep layer of sand is essential; it waits buried.
25–27°C, water close to neutral; good oxygenation and gentle flow.
Minimal decor; a few rocks and roots are enough.

Diet

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

Carnivorous. Fish fillet, shrimp, mussels and worms; snails and shellfish wear down the teeth. It is fed infrequently; placing food in front of it with tongs is the easiest way.

Behavior and Compatibility

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

It waits motionless all day and catches or bites any fish that passes by in a single strike.

Good companions: none; it must be kept alone.

Avoid: all fish, shrimp, snails.

A short profile for this species

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Natural Habitat Group and Colony Structure Breeding Health and Common Problems Sexing

Tank mates

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