Pea Puffer (Carinotetraodon travancoricus)

Buy Pea Puffer (Dwarf Pufferfish) for your aquarium today. These tiny freshwater puffers are perfect for planted nano tanks and natural snail control.

Add personality and intelligence to your aquarium with the Pea Puffer—one of the most unique and entertaining nano fish in the hobby.

The Pea Puffer, also known as the Dwarf Pufferfish, is the world’s smallest freshwater puffer, growing to only about 1 inch. Native to India, these tiny predators are incredibly curious, interactive, and full of character. Perfect for aquarists looking for something different, they thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots.

🔥 Why You’ll Love Pea Puffers

• One of the smallest freshwater pufferfish in the world
• Highly intelligent and interactive with owners
• Unique personality compared to typical community fish
• Natural snail hunter—great for pest control
• Perfect for species tanks and planted aquariums

⚙️ Care Information

• Scientific Name: Carinotetraodon travancoricus
• Common Names: Pea Puffer, Dwarf Puffer
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial
• Max Size: approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm)
• Tank Size: A well-planted 20-gallon long or larger aquarium is recommended for a group of approximately six; provide ample horizontal space and separate territories
• Diet: Carnivore (snails, bloodworms, daphnia, frozen/live foods)

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🌿 Ideal Tank Setup

• Heavily planted aquarium with hiding spots
• Low to moderate flow
• Territories broken up with plants and decor
• Species-only tank recommended for best results

Limited availability – Pea Puffers are highly sought after and sell quickly.

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions

Can Pea Puffers live in community tanks?
They can be aggressive and may nip fins, so they’re best kept in species-only setups or with carefully chosen tank mates.

Do Pea Puffers eat snails?
Yes. Small snails are useful prey and enrichment, but pea puffers do not generally require hard-shelled food to grind down overgrowing teeth the way many larger puffers do. Offer varied live or frozen meaty foods.

How many can I keep together?
Pea puffers are social but may be territorial. A group of around six in a densely planted 20-gallon long or larger species aquarium is a more reliable starting point than a small mixed group in 10 gallons. Provide visual barriers, monitor aggression, and increase space for larger groups.

Are they beginner-friendly?
They’re hardy but require specialized feeding and behavior management, making them better for intermediate aquarists.

Do they need live food?
Yes, they prefer live or frozen foods and may not accept dry food easily.