Species profile
Pea Puffer
Carinotetraodon travancoricus
Aggressive
Moderate care
60 L minimum aquarium
2–3 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Tiny but territorial freshwater puffer; dense structure and a species-focused group setup are safer than casual nano-community mixing.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–27 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
6–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Mid bottom
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Inverts
Bioload factor
0.8
Small size masks strong territorial and predatory behaviour. Dense planting and sight breaks let a group establish micro-territories.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
Yes / caution
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
60 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Carinotetraodon travancoricus
Alternative names
Pea Puffer, Dwarf Puffer, Malabar Puffer, Pygmy Puffer
Native range
Western Ghats of Kerala, India.
Natural habitat
Freshwater streams, rivers and associated vegetated waters; unlike many commonly kept Asian puffers, this species does not require marine salt.
Diet & feeding
Small molluscs, worms and other invertebrates form the core diet; snails are useful prey but diet should not be limited to one food.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males can show a darker ventral line and stronger colour patterning; females are usually fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Eggs are deposited among fine vegetation or moss; adults provide no prolonged parental care and may prey on eggs/fry.