Species profile
Red-tailed Red-eye Puffer
Carinotetraodon irrubesco
Aggressive
Hard care
80 L minimum aquarium
4–4.5 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A small body size does not make this a conventional nano-community fish. Individual aggression and invertebrate predation must be expected.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
20–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
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
High
Predation risk
Snails
Bioload factor
1
Small but territorial freshwater puffer. Individual temperament varies; fins, shrimp and snails are at risk and community success cannot be assumed.
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
5–8 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
80 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Carinotetraodon irrubesco
Alternative names
Red Eye Red Tail Puffer, Irrubesco Puffer
Native range
Indonesia, particularly Sumatra and adjacent Sundaic freshwater systems.
Natural habitat
Slow acidic freshwater with dense vegetation, leaf litter, roots and shaded margins.
Diet & feeding
Hard-shelled and soft-bodied invertebrates including snails, crustaceans and insect larvae; rotate varied frozen/live foods to maintain tooth wear and condition.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Adult males typically show stronger red tail coloration and a dark ventral stripe; females are rounder and often more mottled.
Breeding
Substrate/plant-associated spawning has been reported; males become territorial and eggs/fry require protection from adults.