Hairy Puffer

The Hairy Puffer is a freshwater fish from Asia and grows to about 15cm in length. This puffer fish, which is rarely available, is particularly interesting to look at because of its eponymous fringes (“hair”), especially on the lower jaw. Its coloration, which consists of various shades of brown, gives an idea of ​​its way of life: well adapted to the rocky or stony substrate of its natural habitat, the puffer fish usually lies on the ground waiting for passing prey. Thanks to its camouflage, it looks like a rock covered with algae, which is why potential prey unsuspectingly approach it to pluck off the supposed algae.

Care in the aquarium In terms of care, Tetraodon baileyi can be classified as moderately difficult. Certain basic conditions have to be met in order for it to thrive. Although this fish takes up relatively little swimming space as it spends most of its time lurking, due to its size it still needs a tank with at least 100cm edge length. The water should be rather neutral in pH and oxygen-rich, with a water temperature between 22 and 27°C. If you offer the Hairy Puffer a sandy substrate, it will sometimes bury itself in it. Some current and dimmed light are preferred and hiding places in the form of dense planting as well as roots or stone structures should not be missing in the tank. Tetraodon baileyi is a loner and behaves aggressively within the species, so it should be kept individually. A socialization with other fish – apart from live forage fish – is not recommended.

Feeding As a food specialist, the Hairy Puffer absolutely needs snails in the food supply, as it needs them to keep its constantly growing teeth short and to be able to survive. Harder materials such as small pieces of lava and coral or shells can also help. It also accepts a wide variety of live and frozen food as well as fish, crab and mussel meat; however, this cannot completely replace the feeding of snails. Fish that are smaller or the same size as itself are also on its menu, which is why socializing with them is not recommended.

Sexual characteristics and breeding Differentiating the sexes of these puffers is very difficult and, according to reports, only sometimes possible due to their very varied coloring and fringes. Nothing is currently known about successful breeding in the aquarium.