Red-tail Red-eye Puffer

The red-tail red-eye puffer is a small puffer from the fresh waters of Sumatra that stays at 4–5 cm. Males stand out with their red eyes, dark bellies and the red-orange edges of the tail fin; females have brown blotches and are plainer. It does not need salt; it likes soft, slightly acidic water. Its care is similar to that of the dwarf puffer, but it is a little larger and more aggressive.

• At least 60 liters for 1 male and 2 females; dense plants and sight barriers.
• 25–27°C, soft, slightly acidic water; roots and dried leaves are suitable.
• It is sensitive to nitrate buildup; 30% water changes every week.
• Males are very aggressive toward each other; keep a single male in a small tank.

Carnivorous; it usually refuses dry food. Offer small snails (essential for wearing down the teeth), frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp and cyclops.

Curious, territorial and aggressive; it bites the fins of other fish and hunts shrimp and snails.

Good companions: it is best kept only with its own kind.

Avoid: community fish, especially slow and long-finned species; shrimp; snails (they become food).