🐡 Cross River Puffer — (Tetraodon pustulatus)

The Cross River Puffer is considered one of the most sought-after puffers in the aquarium hobby — often called one of the “holy grails” of puffer fish, ranking just below the legendary Duboisi Puffer (Tetraodon duboisi) in rarity and prestige. Known for its bold patterning, large size, and intelligent, almost pet-like behavior, this species is a dream fish for serious puffer keepers.

Native to the Cross River system in West Africa, it inhabits freshwater environments with moderate to strong current, often in deeper channels and along rocky or sandy substrates. Its rarity in the trade comes from both collection difficulty and the need for specialized care.

🌊 Tank Setup

• 🏠 Tank Size: Minimum 200–300+ gallons for a single adult — these puffers get big and need space to turn comfortably.
• ⛰️ Aquascape with open swimming space, sturdy décor, and smooth rocks (avoid sharp edges).
• 💧 Strong filtration and current — pristine water is essential for health.
• 🌊 Brisk water movement and high oxygen levels preferred.

🍽️ Diet

• 🦐 Strict carnivore — requires a diet rich in shellfish (clams, snails, crab legs, mussels) to keep teeth worn down naturally.
• 🐟 Also accepts fish fillet, shrimp, crayfish, and other meaty foods.
• ⚠️ Must feed hard-shelled prey regularly to prevent dangerous tooth overgrowth.

⚖️ Temperament

• ⚔️ Highly aggressive and predatory — should be kept alone. Will attack or kill tankmates, even other puffers.
• 🧠 Extremely intelligent and interactive — recognizes keepers, learns feeding schedules, and may beg for food like a puppy.

🧠 Behavior & Care

• 👀 Curious and alert — needs environmental enrichment to prevent boredom.
• 🧼 Requires spotless water — sensitive to ammonia/nitrite spikes.
• 🦷 Dental care is crucial — diet must maintain beak health.
• 🚚 Large tank and heavy filtration make this a long-term commitment fish.

📋 At a glance

💡 The Cross River Puffer is not just a fish — it’s an interactive, intelligent aquatic predator that demands space, power filtration, and the right diet. Rarely seen, highly prized, and requiring expert care, it stands just one step below the elusive Duboisi Puffer in puffer fish prestige.