Species profile
Congo Puffer
Tetraodon miurus
Aggressive
Hard care
120 L minimum aquarium
15–18 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Strictly predatory ambush puffer best kept alone. Deep fine sand is required because the fish naturally buries itself while waiting for prey.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
Up to 15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
2.5
Do not treat as a community puffer. It is an ambush predator capable of killing fish approaching its strike zone.
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
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
120 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Tetraodon miurus
Alternative names
Congo Puffer, Potato Puffer, Congo River Puffer
Native range
Congo River basin, central Africa.
Natural habitat
Freshwater river and rapid habitats with sand/gravel and high oxygen. Provide a deep fine-sand bed and excellent water quality.
Diet & feeding
Predatory diet of crustaceans, molluscs and suitably sized meaty foods; avoid feeder-fish dependence.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Reliable external sexing is not established for normal aquarium use.
Breeding
Captive breeding is poorly documented and should not be presented as routine.