Species profile
Spotted Congo Puffer
Tetraodon schoutedeni
Semi aggressive
Hard care
150 L minimum aquarium
8–10 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Freshwater Congo puffer that is more social than many Tetraodon, but still predatory and individually variable. Not a conventional community fish.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
Not yet documented
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Mid bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Inverts
Bioload factor
1.8
Conspecific groups can work in spacious structured tanks, but compatibility is not guaranteed. Provide visual barriers and multiple feeding areas.
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
150 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Tetraodon schoutedeni
Alternative names
Spotted Congo Puffer, Schoutedeni Puffer
Native range
Congo River basin, central Africa.
Natural habitat
Freshwater flowing habitats with good oxygenation; use soft substrate, cover and strong biological filtration.
Diet & feeding
Feed molluscs, crustaceans and varied meaty foods; hard-shelled items help maintain the beak.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Sexes are difficult to distinguish externally; mature females may become fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Captive breeding is established, but current references conflict over precise spawning/parental-care details; no definitive parental-care claim is imported.